Cacao Is More Than Chocolate: My Experience at Fazenda Mercedes

Cacao Is More Than Chocolate: My Experience at Fazenda Mercedes

In this second part of my Puerto Rico series, I'm taking you deeper into my experience with cacao and everything I learned during my time at Fazenda Mercedes in Utuado, Puerto Rico. 🌱🤎 I'll be sharing my perspective on the cacao plant — how it grows, how the cacao fruit transforms through each stage, and the process that eventually turns these beautiful seeds into the chocolate we know and love. This episode is a reflection of what I experienced and learned through my conversations with Dr. Luz and my time at Fazenda Mercedes, a place that opened my eyes to the connection between nature, cacao, intention, and the deeper meaning behind this sacred plant. As someone who has always felt connected to both science and spirituality, this experience reminded me that there is so much more behind the things we consume every day — there is history, tradition, and a relationship with the earth. I hope this episode invites you to slow down, learn something new, and see cacao from a different perspective. 🤎 Thank you for being here and joining me on this journey. With love, Denise Join the Amor Propio Collective Newsletters Here: https://forms.gle/yBKFYBtNr3MAyNfA6

2nd Series Pt. 1 Soltando Expectativas & Learning to Trust

In this first episode of the series, Soltando Expectativas & Learning to Trust: Puerto Rico, Part One, I open up about the beginning of a journey that started with a simple but powerful yes. I share how an unexpected opportunity led me to Puerto Rico through a tradework exchange at a cacao hacienda — offering my time and energy in service to the land, while stepping into an experience that required deep trust, presence, and surrender. Llegué sin expectativas claras, sin saber exactamente qué me esperaba — y en ese proceso, fui aprendiendo a soltar el control, a confiar en lo desconocido, y a escuchar más profundamente mi intuición. In this episode, I reflect on: * What it felt like to say yes without having all the answers * The fear and uncertainty that came up before and during the trip * Letting go of control and expectations in real time * My first layers of understanding cacao — beyond just the spiritual lens * How trusting the process began to shift something within me This is not a how-to episode. Es una invitación — a reflexionar, a soltar, y a confiar un poco más en tu propio camino. If you are in a season where life is asking you to trust more, control less, and move with intention — this episode is for you. Website: https://deniseevegaa.my.canva.site Join the Amor Propio Collective Newsletters: https://forms.gle/Hs7gDd4kCmtv9Y517

1st Series Solo Episode: Self-Acceptance In Our Self-Love Journey, Updates & Journal Reflections

This solo episode is a recap of the conversation with Laura Gabriela. If you have not tuned into part 1,2, and 3, I recommend you go back to follow the full flow of the conversation. Self-acceptance was the major theme in our conversation in different ways for the both of us. Tune into this episode for a recap on this topic, updates on the podcast and journal reflections straight from my journal (some are Spanglish and/or completely in Spanish). Key Takeaways * Self-acceptance is a crucial part of the healing journey. * Sharing personal stories helps others feel less alone. * Self-improvement and self-love are interconnected. * Fear of judgment can hinder authenticity but should be faced. * Life is a continuous journey of self-discovery and growth. * Embracing change is essential for personal evolution. * Self-love is the foundation for loving others. * Reflections on life can lead to deeper understanding and gratitude. * It's important to be present and appreciate the moment. * The journey of self-love is unique for everyone. Thank you for tuning in. If anything resonated, feel free to share with me! You can connect with me through: IG: @sertumismopodcast Amor Propio Collective: https://forms.gle/sUkW1iVgL7dyLLNB7

1st Series Pt. 3 Healing Out Loud: Becoming Through Self-Acceptance ft. Laura G. Aleman

In this final part of the series, we bring the conversation full circle — reflecting on self-acceptance, healing family dynamics, emotional awareness, and the power of choosing ourselves with compassion. This episode explores how early family patterns, inner dialogue, and learned behaviors shape the way we move through life — and how awareness can open the door to healing, boundaries, and deeper connection. We talk about sensitivity, communication, tone, emotional safety, gratitude, and what it truly means to reprogram our mindset with intention rather than fear. As the conversation unfolds, we reflect on how healing doesn't happen overnight — it happens through consistency, curiosity, grace, and learning to meet ourselves where we are. This final part is an invitation to slow down, listen with an open heart, and honor your own journey without comparison. If you haven't listened to Parts 1 and 2 yet, I recommend starting from the beginning to fully experience the conversation. Follow us on IG: @sertumismopodcast & @laura.gabriela_htx_realtor Join the Amor Propio Collective Newsletters: https://forms.gle/sPgtu2X83yZdmnzn9

1st Series Pt. 2 Healing Out Loud: Becoming Through Self-Acceptance ft. Laura G. Aleman

Part 2 of this series continues the conversation with a powerful reflection on self-acceptance, body awareness, and what it truly means to challenge ourselves in a healthy way. In this episode, we unpack a moment that became a wake-up call — a physical experience that led to deep emotional and spiritual realizations. From redefining wellness and letting go of ego-driven habits, to recognizing how childhood narratives, family dynamics, and inner dialogue shape the way we move through life. This part of the conversation invites you to slow down, listen to your body, and reflect on where you may be pushing yourself from a place of lack rather than love. We also explore self-acceptance, boundaries, reprogramming the inner critic, and how healing ourselves can naturally shift our relationships with others. ✨ If you haven't listened to Part 1 yet, I recommend starting there to fully experience the conversation from the beginning. If you'd like to connect more, follow us on IG: @sertumismopodcast @laura.gabriela_htx_realtor Join the Amor Propio Collective Newsletters: https://forms.gle/zUAuCpTpLxrq97At9