Fashionista Activista

Michelle Dancel & The Sea Moss Queen

Welcome to season two of the Fashionista Activista Podcast, where style meets activism! I’m your host, Diana Diaz. In each episode, we’ll explore the inspiring journeys of women business owners in Los Angeles, with a special focus on women of color. Join us as we celebrate the power, diversity, and creativity of underrepresented Latin women, youth, and queer communities through engaging conversations and high-quality content. Guest:  Michelle Dancel [https://www.instagram.com/eves_wellness/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D#] In this engaging conversation,  Michelle Dancel discusses her inspiring journey from personal challenges to becoming a successful entrepreneur with her sea moss business, Eve's Wellness. Michelle shares her experiences of healing, community support, and the transformative power of sea moss, while also addressing the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of self-care, and her aspirations for the future. Key Takeaways * Michelle's journey began with personal challenges, including a divorce. * She discovered sea moss as a superfood that transformed her health. * Community support played a crucial role in her entrepreneurial journey. * Overcoming rejection is part of the business growth process. * Quitting her 9 to 5 was a significant leap of faith for Michelle. * She aims to expand her product line and reach stores like Whole Foods. * Self-care practices are essential for maintaining her well-being. * Imposter syndrome is a common struggle for new entrepreneurs. * Client success stories highlight the impact of her products. * Surrounding herself with supportive individuals has fueled her growth. Keywords * entrepreneurship * sea moss * wellness * community * business growth * self-care * holistic health * empowerment * personal journey * overcoming challenges Episode Links and Resources * Follow  Michelle Dancel on Instagram @eves_wellness [https://www.instagram.com/eves_wellness/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D#] * Eves Wellness www.eves-wellness.square [https://eves-wellness.square.site/] The Fashionista Activista Podcast is a product of The Goddess Mercado [https://thegoddessmercado.com/], sponsored by New Economics for Women [https://neweconomicsforwomen.org/], SoCalGas [https://www.socalgas.com/], and Kaiser Permanente [https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/southern-california/front-door], and produced by mejia.tv [http://mejia.tv/] Goddess Mercado Theme Song Musical performance: Cello Azul, MariaChingona, Dane Real Composers: Hector Jose Ortiz, Danellia Arechiga, Rachael Rodriguez

Carlos Montes & The Brown Beret at the Smithsonian

Welcome to season two of the Fashionista Activista Podcast, where style meets activism! I’m your host, Diana Diaz. In each episode, we’ll explore the inspiring journeys of women business owners in Los Angeles, with a special focus on women of color. Join us as we celebrate the power, diversity, and creativity of underrepresented Latin women, youth, and queer communities through engaging conversations and high-quality content. Guest: Carlos Montes [https://www.carlosmontes.org/] Summary In this episode of Fashionista Activista, host Diana Diaz engages with Carlos Montes, a prominent activist and organizer from East LA. Carlos shares his journey from early experiences of racism and oppression to becoming a key figure in the Chicano movement and the formation of the Brown Berets. He discusses the impact of activism on his personal life, the challenges of political repression, and his ongoing work with the Community Service Organization. The conversation also touches on the importance of public education, the debate surrounding charter schools, and Carlos's insights on health and longevity as a source of inspiration for the community. Key Takeaways * Carlos Montes began his activism in high school, influenced by racism and oppression. * The Brown Berets were formed organically as a response to community needs. * Carlos faced political repression and was arrested multiple times for his activism. * He went underground to escape persecution, living in Mexico for a time. * Carlos emphasizes the importance of public education and community organizing. * He believes charter schools threaten public education and community integrity. * Carlos's activism is deeply rooted in his personal experiences and family history. * He continues to inspire younger generations through his work with CSO. * Carlos advocates for healthy living and community engagement as keys to longevity. * The conversation highlights the ongoing struggles for social justice in East LA. Keywords * Activism * Community Organizing * Brown Berets * Education * Political Repression * Carlos Montes * East LA * Social Justice * Chicano Movement * Public Education Episode Links and Resources * Follow Carlos Montes on Instagram @carlosmmontes [https://www.instagram.com/carlosmmontes/] * Carlos Montes www.carlosmontes.org [https://www.carlosmontes.org/] The Fashionista Activista Podcast is a product of The Goddess Mercado [https://thegoddessmercado.com/], sponsored by New Economics for Women [https://neweconomicsforwomen.org/], SoCalGas [https://www.socalgas.com/], and Kaiser Permanente [https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/southern-california/front-door], and produced by mejia.tv [http://mejia.tv/] Goddess Mercado Theme Song Musical performance: Cello Azul, MariaChingona, Dane Real Composers: Hector Jose Ortiz, Danellia Arechiga, Rachael Rodriguez

Maria Scott & La Muerte Maria

Welcome to season two of the Fashionista Activista Podcast, where style meets activism! I’m your host, Diana Diaz. In each episode, we’ll explore the inspiring journeys of women business owners in Los Angeles, with a special focus on women of color. Join us as we celebrate the power, diversity, and creativity of underrepresented Latin women, youth, and queer communities through engaging conversations and high-quality content. Guest: Maria Scott  [https://www.instagram.com/lamuertemaria/] Summary In this episode of Fashionista Activista, host Diana Diaz engages with Maria Scott, founder of Sweet Treats Galore and known as La Muerte Maria [https://linktr.ee/lamuertemaria]. They explore the intersection of fashion and activism, Maria's entrepreneurial journey, her cultural roots, and the importance of community empowerment. Maria shares her experiences growing up in an entrepreneurial household, the challenges she faced, and how she transformed her passion for baking into a thriving business. The conversation also delves into her artistic expression through La Muerte Maria, emphasizing the significance of cultural representation and the labor involved in her craft. The episode concludes with insights on inspiration, resilience, and the impact of visibility in the community. Key Takeaways * Fashion can serve as a powerful form of activism. * Entrepreneurship often stems from necessity and resilience. * Cultural identity plays a crucial role in personal expression. * Self-taught skills can lead to successful businesses. * Creating art can be therapeutic and fulfilling. * Community connections are vital for empowerment. * Never give up on your dreams, regardless of challenges. * Inspiration can come from sharing knowledge with others. * Visibility in fashion can promote cultural pride. * Hard work and dedication are essential for success. Keywords * Fashion activism * Entrepreneurship * Cultural identity * Community empowerment * La Muerte Maria * Sweet Treats Galore * Maria Scott * Visibility * Empowerment * Creativity Episode Links and Resources * Follow Maria Scott on Instagram @lamuertemaria [https://www.instagram.com/lamuertemaria/]  * Follow Maria Scott on Linktree @lamuertemaria [https://linktr.ee/lamuertemaria] The Fashionista Activista Podcast is a product of The Goddess Mercado [https://thegoddessmercado.com/], sponsored by New Economics for Women [https://neweconomicsforwomen.org/], SoCalGas [https://www.socalgas.com/], and Kaiser Permanente [https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/southern-california/front-door], and produced by mejia.tv [http://mejia.tv/] Goddess Mercado Theme Song Musical performance: Cello Azul, MariaChingona, Dane Real Composers: Hector Jose Ortiz, Danellia Arechiga, Rachael Rodriguez

Luis Cornejo & Sex Therapist and Indigi Queer

Welcome to season two of the Fashionista Activista Podcast, where style meets activism! I’m your host, Diana Diaz. In each episode, we’ll explore the inspiring journeys of women business owners in Los Angeles, with a special focus on women of color. Join us as we celebrate the power, diversity, and creativity of underrepresented Latin women, youth, and queer communities through engaging conversations and high-quality content. Guest: Luis Cornejo [https://shor.by/LuisCornejo] Summary In this enlightening episode, host Diana Diaz welcomes Luis Cornejo, who shares his profound journey of exploring cultural identity and embracing queerness. Luis delves into how fashion has played a pivotal role in his mental health and self-expression. He discusses the challenges posed by religious trauma, the fluid nature of identity, and the empowerment found through community support. Luis highlights the importance of overcoming negativity, performing self-care rituals, and communicating needs in relationships. This episode is a testament to the power of authenticity and resilience in building one's brand and self-identity. Key Takeaways * Cultural Identity: Understanding and embracing cultural roots is essential in shaping personal identity. * Fashion and Mental Health: Fashion serves as a powerful tool for enhancing mental health and personal visibility. * Authenticity and Healing: The journey to authenticity involves healing and self-acceptance. * Religious Trauma: It can significantly influence self-perception and identity formation. * Fluidity of Queerness: Queerness is a dynamic and evolving identity. * Empowerment and Community Support: Self-expression and community connection are vital for empowerment. * Overcoming Negativity: Focus on love and acceptance to transcend negativity. * Self-Care Rituals: These are crucial for emotional well-being and maintaining balance. * Communication in Relationships: Clearly expressing needs is fundamental for healthy relationships. * Building a Brand: Authenticity and resilience are key to creating a strong personal brand. Keywords * Cultural Identity * Fashion * Mental Health * Authenticity * Religious Trauma * Queerness * Empowerment * Community * Self-Care * Emotional Well-Being Episode Links and Resources * Follow Luis Cornejo @luis_thee_lmft [https://www.instagram.com/luis_thee_lmft/] and luis-cornejo.com [https://www.luis-cornejo.com/] * Learn more about the impact of fashion on mental health # * Explore resources on overcoming religious trauma # Join us in this vibrant conversation as Luis Cornejo unveils the transformative power of fashion and community in navigating identity and enhancing emotional health. Listen now to discover how embracing your true self can lead to empowerment and joy! The Fashionista Activista Podcast is a product of The Goddess Mercado [https://thegoddessmercado.com/], sponsored by New Economics for Women [https://neweconomicsforwomen.org/], SoCalGas [https://www.socalgas.com/], and Kaiser Permanente [https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/southern-california/front-door], and produced by mejia.tv [http://mejia.tv/] Goddess Mercado Theme Song Musical performance: Cello Azul, MariaChingona, Dane Real Composers: Hector Jose Ortiz, Danellia Arechiga, Rachael Rodriguez

Laura Olvera & Señora Calzones

Welcome to season two of the Fashionista Activista Podcast, where style meets activism! I’m your host, Diana Diaz. In each episode, we’ll explore the inspiring journeys of women business owners in Los Angeles, with a special focus on women of color. Join us as we celebrate the power, diversity, and creativity of underrepresented Latin women, youth, and queer communities through engaging conversations and high-quality content. Guest: Laura Olvera aka Señora Calzones [https://www.instagram.com/senoracalzones/] Episode Highlights: Laura Olvera In this lively episode of the Fashionista Podcast, host Diana Diaz sits down with the inspiring Laura Olvera, known to many as Señora Calzones [https://senoracalzones.com/]. Laura shares the evolution of her entrepreneurial journey, beginning with her earliest memories of entrepreneurship inspired by her father. As she transitioned into motherhood, Laura found herself reclaiming her sensuality and self-love, which became cornerstones of her brand. The COVID pandemic served as a pivotal moment for Laura, allowing her to reassess her life and refocus her energies on empowering women through unique boudoir experiences. Laura discusses the importance of embracing vulnerability and individuality in the fashion industry. She delves into how her brand, Señora Calzones, is rooted in her family's history and aims to celebrate women through intimate fashion. The episode also touches on the impact of fashion shows in fostering community engagement and challenging societal norms. Key Takeaways * Entrepreneurial Roots: Laura's journey began with the influence of her father, teaching her the value of entrepreneurship from a young age. * Reclaiming Sensuality: Motherhood and the pandemic provided Laura with the opportunity to reconnect with her sensual self, which became crucial to her personal and professional growth. * Empowerment through Boudoir: The boudoir experience offered by Señora Calzones is about celebrating individuality and empowering women to embrace their sensuality. * Community and Conversation: Fashion shows are more than just events; they are platforms for challenging societal norms and sparking important conversations. * Overcoming Challenges: Laura shares her experiences with criticism in the fashion industry and how she navigates imposter syndrome by removing expectations and staying true to her unique story. Conclusion Laura Olvera's story is one of resilience, empowerment, and self-discovery. Through her brand, Señora Calzones [https://senoracalzones.com/], she encourages women to embrace their authentic selves and invest in their self-worth. Her insights into entrepreneurship, motherhood, and sensuality are both enlightening and inspiring, reminding listeners of the power of community and the beauty of individuality. Tune in to this episode for a dose of empowerment and a celebration of Latina fashion and self-love. The Fashionista Activista Podcast is a product of The Goddess Mercado [https://thegoddessmercado.com/], sponsored by New Economics for Women [https://neweconomicsforwomen.org/], SoCalGas [https://www.socalgas.com/], and Kaiser Permanente [https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/southern-california/front-door], and produced by mejia.tv [http://mejia.tv/] Goddess Mercado Theme Song Musical performance: Cello Azul, MariaChingona, Dane Real Composers: Hector Jose Ortiz, Danellia Arechiga, Rachael Rodriguez