Entre Tías y Amiguis with Adri Rodriguez

This week on Entre Tías y Amiguis, I’m joined by Dr. Jessica Sánchez, a Latina sexologist, licensed sex therapist, and unapologetic pleasure advocate. Together, we dive into the radical concept of pleasure as a form of resistance and explore how we can reclaim our bodies, sexuality, and joy—especially as women of color navigating cultural scripts like marianismo and machismo.

About Dr. Jessica Sánchez:

Dr. Jessica Sánchez, a proud and passionate Chingona, is a sex therapist, professor, and pleasure advocate with over a decade of experience in human sexuality, sexual trauma healing, and sexual violence prevention. She specializes in helping women reconnect with their bodies and reclaim their sexual agency, particularly within historically oppressed and underserved communities. Through her work, Dr. Sánchez decolonizes mental health and sexuality by integrating holistic and ancestral healing practices.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why prioritizing pleasure is a radical act of self-love and resistance
• How cultural narratives shape our relationships with sex and pleasure
• The connection between pleasure and healing from trauma
• Practical tools to reconnect with your body and embrace your sexuality
• How to rewrite outdated scripts and become a cycle starter in your family

Dr. Sánchez’s Take:

"Pleasure is power. It’s not just about sex—it’s about reclaiming agency over our bodies, lives, and identities in a world that often denies us that right."

Mentioned in the Episode:

• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
• Come as You Are by Emily Nagoski
• Principles of Pleasure on Netflix
• Dr. Jessica Sánchez’s dissertation: Chingonas and Sex: A Qualitative Study on Mexican-American Women and Sexual Subjectivity

Chapters:

0:00 – Introduction & Dr. Sánchez’s Story

10:45 – The Radical Act of Reclaiming Pleasure

22:00 – Dismantling Cultural Scripts Around Sexuality

35:15 – Cycle Starters: Breaking Generational Patterns

44:30 – Pleasure as a Healing Practice

55:00 – Practical Tips to Embrace Pleasure

In this thought-provoking episode of Entre Tías y Amiguis, I sit down with my good friend Heather, a therapist, sex educator, and all-around relationship guru. Heather brings her nuanced perspective to the table as we explore the complexities of relationships—both with others and ourselves.

From navigating cuffing season to cultivating secure attachments, Heather shares invaluable insights on how we grow in and out of relationships while staying true to ourselves. This conversation touches on everything from the role of self-awareness to the importance of differentiation, as well as the microcultures we create in our partnerships. Whether you're in a relationship, single, or somewhere in between, there's wisdom here for everyone.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

- Why self-awareness is key to thriving in relationships

- The importance of differentiation: growing separately while staying connected

- How attachment theory applies to adult relationships (spoiler: it’s not just about your mom)

- Practical ways to cultivate secure attachments with yourself and others

- Why seasons of relationships matter and how to embrace them

Heather's Wisdom "Relationships are like gardens. They require attention, nurturing, and understanding that not every season will look the same. Some seasons are about growth, while others are about rest and reflection—and that’s okay."

Mentioned in the Episode:

- Polysecure by Jessica Fern

- Come as You Are and Come Together by Emily Nagoski

- The HEARTS Model for secure relationships

Chapters:

0:00 – Introduction & Heather’s Story

9:15 – Navigating Cuffing Season

17:00 – The Role of Self-Awareness in Relationships

27:30 – Attachment Theory & Secure Bases

39:00 – Differentiation and Boundaries

49:45 – Seasons of Relationships & Takeaways

In this episode of Entre Tías y Amiguis, we sit down with Esthela Duran, a powerhouse in the real estate industry and a dear friend of nearly two decades. Esthela’s journey is anything but conventional, taking her from a small town in Michoacán, Mexico, to Sacramento, where she’s made waves as a RE/MAX Hall of Fame realtor and former President of NAHREP Greater Sacramento. We delve into her experiences navigating life and career on her own terms, the challenges of breaking away from societal expectations, and the resilience it takes to live a “non-linear life.” Join us as we explore what it means to find success, joy, and fulfillment beyond traditional paths.

Guest Bio:

Born in Michoacán, Mexico, Esthela Duran moved to California at the age of five, beginning a life marked by resilience and ambition. Her journey into real estate has been fueled by a deep commitment to service and community. Now a RE/MAX Hall of Fame realtor, Esthela has earned a reputation for exceptional client care and industry leadership. As President of NAHREP Greater Sacramento, she has advocated for sustainable Hispanic homeownership, furthering her mission to uplift and empower her community.

In addition to her real estate success, Esthela serves as host of the Sacramento Association of Realtors Natomas Regional Meeting, where she fosters professional development and collaboration among her peers. Guided by her motto, "vida solo hay una" (there is only one life), Esthela embraces every opportunity with joy and purpose, both in her career and personal life.

Outside of work, Esthela loves traveling, exploring new places, and prioritizing self-care. Her story is an inspiring reminder that fulfillment and success are achievable when we embrace a path that reflects our true selves.

Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/esthelad

Website: https://buyandsellsac.com/

Chapters:

Intro and Background – 00:02

Immigrant Roots and Early Life – 04:30

Navigating a Non-Linear Life – 09:45

Building a Career in Real Estate – 15:20

The Challenges of Choosing a Non-Traditional Path – 23:55

Living Authentically and Fully – 32:10

Advice for Embracing Your Own Path – 43:15

In this episode of Entre Tías y Amiguis, Adri sits down with Beatriz Rivera, an inspiring entrepreneur coach and former social worker who left her role to help BIPOC and queer entrepreneurs build purpose-driven businesses. Beatriz shares her unique journey, from supporting her father’s business during the pandemic to building her own coaching practice rooted in community and values. This conversation explores how purpose and healing can power our professional lives, and Beatriz offers insights into entrepreneurship as a means to not just financial success but personal growth. If you're looking to align your career with your values or gain confidence in your journey, this episode is full of wisdom!

Guest Bio:

Beatriz Rivera is a former social worker turned entrepreneur coach for women of color, BIPOC, and queer entrepreneurs. Hailing from Los Angeles, Beatriz earned her Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University and has dedicated her career to social and racial justice, healing, and empowerment in entrepreneurship. Through her coaching, Beatriz supports clients in navigating tough business decisions, creating strategies for success, and facing fears with conviction, leading them toward clarity, accountability, and growth.

Links:

Beatriz Rivera on Instagram: @beaboss.coach

Be a Boss Coaching: beabosscoaching.com

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction and Beatriz’s Journey to Entrepreneurship

03:30 – From Social Work to Entrepreneurship: Taking a Leap of Faith

08:00 – Building Community and Accountability for BIPOC Entrepreneurs

11:45 – The Healing Era: Moving Home and Working with Family

17:30 – Purpose and Passion in Entrepreneurship

24:15 – Building a Business in Alignment with Personal Values

31:00 – Coaching with a Focus on Social Justice and Healing

38:15 – The Intersection of Social Work Skills and Business Coaching

45:10 – Final Reflections on Purpose and Community Impact

In this episode Adri sits down with Lauren Puliz, Licensed Marriage and Family therapist and founder of Millennial Mama Therapy, to dive into the emotional and mental shifts that come with parenthood. Lauren shares her journey through matrescence, the complex and often misunderstood process of becoming a mother, and how it inspired her to create a practice that supports moms navigating this life-altering transformation.

Lauren opens up about her own experience as a pandemic mom and the shocking reality of postpartum life—revealing the immense impact of identity shifts, isolation, and lack of support that many mothers face. Together, they discuss why it’s crucial to address the needs of new parents with empathy and community care, and why we need a village to support the postpartum journey.

In this heart-to-heart conversation, they tackle topics like the “fourth trimester,” baby blues vs. postpartum depression, and the cultural expectations placed on mothers to have it all together. Lauren also sheds light on the brutiful (brutal + beautiful) realities of parenthood and provides practical ways for friends, family, and therapists to support new parents in meaningful ways.

Whether you’re a new parent, a friend to someone expecting, or simply interested in learning more about maternal mental health, this episode is a powerful reminder that motherhood is both hard and beautiful—and that no one should have to do it alone.

Guest Bio

Lauren Pulis is a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of Millennial Mama Therapy, a private practice focused on maternal mental health. Inspired by her own motherhood journey, Lauren now specializes in supporting new and expecting moms as they navigate matrescence and the transformative, often challenging transition into parenthood. Lauren is passionate about creating spaces where parents feel seen, supported, and empowered to embrace all parts of their experience.

Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/millennial_mama_therapy/

Website: https://millennialmamatherapy.com/

Resources:

Postpartum Support International (PSI) for maternal mental health resources and training for providers: https://www.postpartum.net/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Lauren’s Journey

03:15 - The Realities of Postpartum: Baby Blues vs. Depression

08:30 - Matrescence: The Emotional Transition into Motherhood

12:00 - Building a Village: Why Moms Need Support

15:20 - Navigating Identity Shifts and Rediscovering Self

18:45 - Cultural Expectations and Gender Roles in Parenting

23:10 - Understanding the “Fourth Trimester” 26:30 - Breaking the Silence on Maternal Mental Health

31:00 - How the Village Can Show Up for New Moms

36:15 - Tips for Therapists Working with New Parents

41:30 - Addressing the Myth of “Having It All Together”

46:00 - Final Reflections on the Brutiful Realities of Parenthood

In this episode, Adri sits down with Naomi Fierro Peña, a soulful artist, community curator, and the founder of That Art Party, a space for BIPOC adults to engage in creative play as a form of self-care and liberation. 🌿

Naomi shares her journey from being a teacher burned out by the pressures of white supremacy culture to creating a business focused on using art, creativity, and play to foster healing and connection in the BIPOC community. The conversation delves into the importance of reclaiming creativity as adults, breaking free from the pressures of perfectionism and internalized capitalism, and creating spaces where creativity doesn’t have to be monetized or productive—it can simply be joyful and healing. 🎨

They explore how That Art Party offers BIPOC adults a safe space to reconnect with their creativity, form meaningful connections, and heal through community and play. Naomi also highlights the importance of collaboration with other BIPOC artists, and how her events foster a sense of belonging, freedom, and self-expression.

This episode will resonate with anyone who’s felt disconnected from their creativity, wants to embrace play, or is looking for community-driven spaces that center healing and joy.

Guest Bio:

Naomi Fierr-Peña is a soulful artist, community curator, and the founder of That Art Party, an art and play space for BIPOC adults. With over 10 years of experience as a teacher, Naomi now focuses on creating transformative and liberatory experiences through creative playdates, bringing healing and joy to her community through art.

Links:

Website https://www.thatartparty.com/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/that.art.party/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Naomi’s Journey

04:30 - Burnout and Breaking Free from White Supremacy Culture

08:00 - Creating That Art Party: Art as Liberation

11:30 - The Importance of Creative Play for Healing

16:00 - Internalized Capitalism and Creativity

19:45 - The Healing Power of Play for BIPOC Adults

24:15 - Art as a Tool for Mental Health

28:30 - Building Community Through Creative Play

33:10 - Intentional Living and Curating Meaningful Spaces

39:00 - The Power of Parallel Play and Collaboration

45:00 - Growing Up in San Francisco’s Mission District and Its Influence on Art

50:00 - Final Thoughts: Returning to Your Inner Child"

In this conversation, Adri and Lupe dive into their podcast journey and the concept of 'señorahood,' reclaiming and redefining what it means to embrace adulthood with confidence and authenticity. They share reflections on self-acceptance, self-awareness, and how they’ve learned to set boundaries while embracing creativity and play.

Adri and Lupe discuss the challenges of friendships in adulthood, including the need for intentionality and boundaries to maintain healthy, reciprocal relationships. They also explore the role of social media in connecting with others and finding joy in shared interests.

Together, they reflect on the pressures of internalized capitalism and how to navigate self-worth beyond money or recognition. Lupe opens up about her journey of balancing self-care with nurturing a home environment and the importance of embracing change and aging as part of building community and connection.

Guest Bio:

Lupe Nambo is a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and owner of Luna Counseling in Sacramento, California. With a passion for fostering healing through a decolonial, intersectional, and anti-racist approach, Lupe provides a safe and inclusive space for all, while focusing on supporting communities of color.

As a first-generation Latina and daughter of immigrants, Lupe’s journey deeply informs her work, helping clients navigate systemic inequalities and heal from generational trauma.

Outside of her work, Lupe proudly identifies as a certified chillona (crier) with a dash of neuro-spicy flair. You’ll often find her Bookstagramming, crafting creations, cuddling her fur babies, and chasing all of her passions—one tear at a time.

Links:

Website:

https://www.luna-counseling.com/en/home

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/luna_counseling/ and https://www.instagram.com/libros.de.lupe/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Podcasting

02:30 Exploring Señorahood 06:29 Embracing Identity

09:19 Owning Señorahood

13:54 Self-Awareness and Self-Acceptance

17:24 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care

21:07 Cultivating Creativity and Play

25:20 The Role of Reading in Their Lives

28:14 Navigating Friendships: Creating Boundaries and Being Intentional

32:21 The Role of Social Media in Connecting with Others

34:12 Being Open to New Friendships While Prioritizing Time and Energy

36:19 Mutual Understanding and Reciprocity in Healthy Relationships

48:25 Embracing Change and Aging as Part of the Journey

50:54 Cultivating Community and Connection

In this conversation, Adri and Violetta explore the topic of family estrangement, specifically within the BIPOC community. Violetta shares her journey as a Mexican licensed mental health therapist and how her personal and professional experiences led her to focus on family estrangement through her practice, Latinx Estrangement.

Adri and Violetta discuss the misconceptions surrounding estrangement, such as the assumption that reconciliation is always the goal. They delve into the emotional spectrum of estrangement, including the role of guilt, grief, and the need for safety and boundaries. Together, they examine how collectivistic and individualistic values influence the experience of estrangement and the impact of cultural norms like machismo and marianismo.

The conversation highlights the importance of addressing emotions, offering support to those navigating family estrangement, and the power of creating new traditions and communities. Violeta also emphasizes that healing from estrangement often focuses on rebuilding oneself rather than seeking reconciliation.

Guest Bio

Violetta is a licensed mental health therapist and founder of Latinx Estrangement, a practice dedicated to supporting individuals navigating family estrangement, particularly within the BIPOC community. Violetta’s work focuses on breaking down the misconceptions around estrangement and providing the emotional support and resources needed for healing and renewal.

Links

Therapist Profile: https://latinxtherapy.com/therapists/violetta-m-fernandez-lcsw/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/latinx_estrangement/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@latinxestrangement?lang=en

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Violeta’s Background

03:03 Introducing the Topic of Family Estrangement

05:15 Inspiration and Focus on Family Estrangement

09:15 The Influence of Personal Experience on the Approach to Estrangement

12:32 Misconceptions and Barriers to Recognizing Family Estrangement

17:05 The Role of Collectivistic Values in Family Estrangement

21:33 Cultural Values and Family Estrangement

27:14 Understanding the Spectrum of Family Estrangement

34:09 Navigating Guilt and Grief in Estrangement

38:24 Rebuilding Oneself and Establishing New Traditions

44:37 Supporting Loved Ones in Estrangement

In this conversation, Adri and Kita (@lajefakita + @cafecitoconjefas + @kitazuletaphoto) discuss what it means to be a multi-potentialite and how embracing multiple passions can be a superpower in business and life. Kita, a first-gen Mexi-Salvi Jefa, shares her journey of navigating ADHD, balancing diverse roles, and building a thriving community through Cafecito con Jefas. The conversation explores the challenges of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and how multi-potentialites can leverage adaptability and rapid learning to succeed.

Adri and Kita also discuss the importance of community in supporting entrepreneurship, highlighting how Cafecito con Jefas has become a space where Jefas can connect, learn, and grow together. Kita reflects on the importance of self-care and setting boundaries to avoid burnout and how creating a community has empowered her while supporting others.

They discuss showing up authentically in different spaces and how owning your identity as a multi-potentialite can lead to success, even when the world tells you to niche down. Kita emphasizes that leaning into your strengths can be the key to building a business and life that reflects your full self.

Guest Bio

Kita Zuleta is a first-gen Mexi-Salvi Brand Strategist, Coach, Photographer, and Podcaster. She is the founder of Cafecito con Jefas, a community and podcast designed to help Jefas grow their brands, connect with one another, and pursue holistic entrepreneurship. Kita, a neurodivergent creative, believes in embracing all aspects of yourself and using those superpowers to build a business that’s true to you.

Links

Website: https://www.cafecitoconjefas.com/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cafecito-con-jefas/id1689868420

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cafecitoconjefas

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Sharing Identities

05:12 Embracing the Multi-Potentialite Identity

09:49 Navigating Multiple Roles and Interests

12:20 Challenges of People-Pleasing and Perfectionism

14:06 The Traits of Multi-Potentialites: Idea Synthesis, Rapid Learning, and Adaptability

19:39 Finding Validation and Fulfillment as a Multi-Potentialite

21:33 Strategies for Managing and Balancing Diverse Roles

25:53 Communicating the Multi-Potentialite Identity

43:39 Creating Safe Spaces for Real-Life Experiences

51:11 Self-Care and Avoiding Burnout

58:12 Paving the Way for Future Generations of Jefas

In this conversation, Adri and Michell explore the intersection of identity, law, and advocacy. Michell shares her experiences as a first-generation queer Latina navigating the legal world and how her background has shaped her journey as a Family Law attorney. The discussion delves into the challenges of being unapologetically herself in the courtroom, where she’s committed to prioritizing accountability, transparency, and fighting for her clients.

Adri and Michell discuss the obstacles she has faced, including microaggressions and the pressure to conform to traditional norms within the legal profession. Michell reflects on what it means to rock the boat and stand firm in her identity, despite these challenges. They also dive into the importance of mental health and self-care, especially for those in high-pressure careers like law, and how Michell has incorporated therapy, community, and boundary-setting into her routine.

The conversation highlights the importance of creating space for oneself and others, standing up for what’s right, and embracing the power of mentorship and community support. Michell shares her vision for a more inclusive legal system and the impact she hopes to make as she continues her journey.

Guest Bio

Michell Flores, Esq. is a first-generation queer Latina Family Law attorney based in Sacramento, California. Recognized as a Rising Star from 2022 to 2024, Michell is passionate about challenging perspectives, standing up for justice, and creating space for others to thrive. With a focus on accountability and doing the right thing, Michell is committed to making a lasting impact on her community through her work in law.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Michell’s Background

02:24 The Influence of Identity on Michell’s Journey

05:09 Choosing Family Law and the Impact of Intersecting Identities

08:51 Rocking the Boat: Being Unapologetically Yourself

13:12 Prioritizing Accountability and Doing the Right Thing

15:00 Aspiring to Be a Judge and Inspiring Others

19:41 Empowering Moments in Court and Planting Seeds of Change

22:21 Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Strength

27:47 Reflecting on Grief and Prioritizing Mental Health

33:24 Taking Care of Yourself and Seeking Therapy

36:23 Building a Supportive Community and Leaning on Others

38:44 Embracing Challenges and Pushing Through

44:09 The Power of Asking for Help and Seeking Guidance

53:26 Finding Inspiration and Keeping the Inner Child Alive