What does it take to go from near-constant rejection to becoming the lead actress in rom-coms — in an industry where Filipina faces are still rare?

In this inspiring and deeply real episode, Filipina-American actress and comedian Nikki McKenzie joins Filipina on the Rise to share her story of perseverance, identity, and choosing joy in the face of “almosts.” Nikki opens up about the emotional toll of rejection in the acting world, how she found confidence in her voice and culture, and what it meant to finally land a role that was literally rewritten for her as a Filipina lead.

This conversation is a masterclass in trusting divine timing, letting go of outcomes, and staying true to who you are — even in industries that try to shape you otherwise.

Whether you're chasing a dream, reinventing yourself, or simply want to feel seen — this one is for you.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What it's really like to break into Hollywood as a Filipina actress
• The emotional journey of handling rejection and redefining success
• Why representation in romantic films matters more than we realize
• How Nikki built her career by showing up as her true self
• Lessons on identity, belonging, and letting go of being “picked”
• What it means when a role gets rewritten for you

🎬 About Nikki McKenzie:

Nikki McKenzie is a Filipina-American actress and comedian known for her blend of comedic charisma and emotional depth. She’s starred in heartfelt TV romances like The Wedding Contest and A Vineyard Christmas, making her one of the few Filipina leads in mainstream romantic film. Her upcoming indie rom-com, A Fantastic Relationship, tells the story of a couple who pretends to be back together at a dinner party — and showcases her signature charm in a refreshingly real story about family, love, and self-respect.

🔗 Connect with Nikki McKenzie

(Insert her correct links once confirmed)

IG / @nikkitabanana17
IMDb / Nikki Mckenzie
Coming soon: A Fantastic Relationship (streaming platform TBA)

✨ Connect with Filipina on the Rise

WEB / www.filipinaontherise.com
IG / @filipinaontherise
YOUTUBE / @filipinaontherise
PODCAST / Apple Podcasts

✨ If this episode resonated with you, share it on Instagram and tag us @filipinaontherise — we love seeing how these stories are lighting you up.
And don’t forget to rate & review the show — your support helps amplify Filipina voices and bring more empowering stories to the forefront.

Until next time, stay rising. 🌿

 What if we don’t know how to take up space? Maybe it wasn’t taught to us growing up. Maybe it’s not naturally part of our culture.

On this episode swap, Krystl talks with Erika Casupanan — the first ever Filipino AND Canadian to win Survivor! Erika is a speaker, TV personality, and writer who's built a career on flipping the script on what it means to be underestimated. On Happy to See Me, she interviews guests who were often counted out — and highlights how they broke past the limits placed on them.

In this episode, Erika and Krystl have a vulnerable and empowering conversation around a big question:

They talk about their Filipino upbringing, imposter syndrome, the upper limit problem, and the slow, intentional process of building real self-compassion. You’ll hear stories, reflections, and practical insights that will inspire you to be kind to yourself and step into your power authentically.

✨ This one’s for anyone who’s ever felt small in spaces they were meant to shine in.

Support Filipino BC’s Kapwa Strong Fund https://filipinobc.com/

Follow the Happy to See Me Pod on Instagram 

https://www.instagram.com/happytoseemepod/

Listen to the Happy to See Me Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happy-to-see-me-with-erika-casupanan/id1667189595

Follow Erika on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/erika_cas/

Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@happytoseemepod

Please rate, review and subscribe!

Join me, Krystl Fabella, as I sit down with Trisha Perez of Talaya Guides, a sacred spaceholder, death doula, and guide for those navigating major life transitions. Trisha’s journey is one of immense transformation—after experiencing a devastating stillbirth in 2017, she found herself in a deep personal reckoning. Now, she helps others embrace their own dark moments, guiding them from chaos to clarity with grace, love, and deep healing.

💫 In this episode, we discuss:
✨ Moving through grief and life’s darkest moments to find clarity
✨ The importance of seeking support & the power of community
✨ Practical ways to hold space for yourself and others during difficult times
✨ How playfulness and joy can be powerful tools for healing
✨ A special singing exercise at the end—trust me, you’ll love it!

🌿 About Trisha Perez:
Trisha is an oracle of love and an activator of change, guiding people through major transitions with a deep sense of wisdom, intuition, and embodiment. She is certified in numerous healing modalities, including Reiki, breathwork, high-conflict divorce coaching, and holistic sound healing. Her mission is to help others reclaim their power and move through life’s most challenging moments with confidence and self-love.

🔗 Connect with Trisha & Work with Her:
Website: www.talayaguides.com
Instagram: @talayaguides
TikTok: @talayaguides
YouTube: @talayaguides

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform!

Dr. Stacey Litam, a licensed clinical counselor and psychologist, discusses intergenerational trauma and healing in the Filipino-American community. She shares the impact of cultural scripts on relationships and self-worth. Dr. Litam emphasizes the importance of secure attachment in relationships and the need for partners who understand, anticipate needs, and love without transactional expectations. She also explores the concept of diasporic wounds and the process of healing and growth in the Filipino-American community. In this conversation, Dr. Stacey Litam and Krystl discuss the importance of intergenerational healing and the role of secure partnerships in the healing process. They explore the need to decolonize our understanding of healing and embrace both individual and interpersonal healing. They also touch on the concept of epigenetics and how trauma can be passed down through generations. The conversation emphasizes the value of community and connection in the healing journey and encourages celebrating our accomplishments and prioritizing self-care.

takeaways

• Intergenerational trauma and cultural scripts impact the Filipino-American community's relationships and self-worth.
• Seeking white proximity for acceptance is a survival strategy rooted in colonial mentality.
• Healing and growth in the Filipino-American community require secure attachment in relationships.
• Partners who understand, anticipate needs, and love without transactional expectations support healing and self-acceptance.
• Acknowledging and addressing diasporic wounds is essential for personal and collective healing. Intergenerational healing involves recognizing and embracing the strengths and patterns inherited from previous generations.
• Secure and healthy partnerships can be a powerful tool for healing and growth.
• Healing should be approached from both an individualistic and collectivist perspective, acknowledging the importance of self-care and community support.
• Epigenetics highlights the impact of trauma on our DNA and the potential for resilience and growth.
• It is important to celebrate our accomplishments and prioritize self-care in order to avoid burnout and find fulfillment.

Website

Instagram: @drstaceyalitam

intergenerational trauma, healing, Filipino-American, white proximity, cultural scripts, relationships, self-worth, secure attachment, diasporic wounds, growth, intergenerational healing, secure partnerships, decolonizing healing, epigenetics, trauma, community, connection, celebration, self-care

In this episode of the Filipina on the Rise podcast, host Krystl Fabella interviews Erika Aquino, an angel investor and strategic advisor. They discuss Erika's journey, the importance of sharing personal stories, and the influence of her family background on her career. Erika emphasizes the significance of community support, the challenges of being an investor, and the need for balance in life. The conversation also touches on the concept of angel investing and how it differs from traditional investing, highlighting the risks and rewards involved. In this conversation, Erika Aquino and Krystl Fabella delve into the world of angel investing, discussing its challenges and rewards. They explore the personal motivations behind investing, the importance of financial independence, and the impact of Filipino values on wealth-building. The discussion also touches on self-care, minimalism, and the significance of representation for women in business. Erika shares her journey of embracing new versions of herself and the importance of crafting a personal message to inspire others.

takeaways

• Sharing your story can help others and yourself.
• Vulnerability is key to personal growth.
• Community support is essential for success.
• Recognizing your weaknesses allows for better collaboration.
• Defining your needs is the first step to getting help.
• Asking for help can open new opportunities.
• Rest is crucial for maintaining productivity.
• Building meaningful connections is more important than quantity.
• Angel investing involves significant risk and potential reward.
• Your background shapes your values and career path. Angel investing spans a broad range of stages from idea to growth.
• Most startups fail, making angel investing a risky venture.
• The joy of angel investing comes from learning and networking.
• It's essential to prioritize self-care and set boundaries.
• Filipino values can sometimes hinder financial independence.
• Minimalism can lead to a more fulfilling life.
• Embracing new versions of oneself is crucial for growth.
• Public engagement can inspire others, especially women.
• Crafting a personal message is vital for effective communication.
• Finding the right medium to express oneself enhances impact.

Follow Erika along:
IG: @iamerikaaquino
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/erika-aquino
Website: www.erika-aquino.com

A Year of Transformation and Embracing the Pause

Hey everyone, it's Krystl Fabella, your host and the founder of Filipina on the Rise! I’m so excited to bring you this deeply personal and reflective episode where I share my journey over the past year—a year that’s been filled with growth, challenges, and lessons I never saw coming.

This conversation feels like a heart-to-heart with you all. I dive into what it’s been like navigating major shifts in my life, from the unexpected changes to redefining what truly matters. I’ve realized how important it is to pause, reflect, and let go of those rigid expectations we place on ourselves.

I get real about my struggles with staying authentic in the midst of all the noise and the beauty I’ve found in leaning into stillness. Through it all, I’ve learned that slowing down doesn’t mean stopping—it means creating space for clarity, magic, and connection to enter our lives.

Whether you’re in a season of transition, looking for inspiration, or just need a reminder that it’s okay to not have everything figured out, this episode is for you. Let’s embrace the messy, the magical, and everything in between together!

What You’ll Take Away:

• Who were you a year ago? What were you doing or going through?
• How did you change? What has stayed the same?
• IT'S OKAY TO CHANGE AWAY FROM WHAT USED TO WORK
• Giving yourself time to pause for clarity, even if that takes longer
• Community and connection are our lifelines in times of change
• Freeing up space for surprises and magic to happen in your life
• Letting go of expectations can lead to living more authentically.
• Sometimes, pausing is the best way to let magic unfold.

I can’t wait for you to tune in and reflect on these lessons with me. Let’s grow together and make room for all the beautiful things waiting to unfold in our lives!

As I go on this hiatus and reassessment period, here is a question for you: Have you ever found yourself trying so hard to make something happen, whether it's a career or a relationship or a life path, and it feels stuck? Have you ever desired to just see what happens when you "let it go?" In this episode, I talk about the significance of pausing to celebrate accomplishments, extract key learnings, and be present in the current journey. 

I'm joined at the end by a community member Sandra, on this IG live, who shares how she's found herself in a period of surrender and hiatus in her professional journey.

What resonates with you the most in this episode?

The episode highlights the transformative power of stepping away from the hustle to realign motivations and cultivate a heart-centered approach to growth.

• Embrace a season of surrender to reflect, celebrate accomplishments, and realign motivations
• Practice being present and grateful for all that has been accomplished, savoring the journey.
• Learn to balance the yang energy of constant movement with the yin energy of rest, reflection, and realignment.
• Prioritize self-compassion and taking the time to nurture oneself amidst the hustle and external pressures.
• Explore the transformative potential of stepping away, pausing, and allowing new inspirations to emerge.

Notable Quotes:

• "Enter a place of complete mystery in order to find what is better for you."
• "Living in your truth is not the easiest path, but the best growth comes when you are honest with yourself."
• "What if we suspend, for a moment, the bigger goal and look around to be in awe of where we are currently?"
• "Learn to balance the yang energy of constant movement with the yin energy of rest and reflection."

Lauren Hoffman, a talented hurdler of Filipino-American descent, is a graduate of Duke University and an aspiring track and field star currently competing in Paris. With a passion for representing the Philippines in international competitions, Lauren's journey to the Olympics has been marked by dedication, discipline, and a strong belief in her abilities. She is not only a fierce athlete but also a humble individual who values her family and roots.

Episode Summary:

Excitement fills the air as Krystl welcomes Lauren Hoffman live from the Olympic village in Paris. Lauren shares her experiences leading up to the Olympics, her emotions at being surrounded by diverse athletes, and the deep sense of pride she feels representing the Philippines. The conversation delves into Lauren's personal journey, her strong support system, and her unwavering faith as she prepares for her upcoming race in the women's 400 hurdles.

Lauren's infectious energy and gratitude shine through as she discusses the significance of achieving her goal of competing for the Philippines, the importance of staying grounded amidst the chaos, and the support she receives from her family and fans. With the Olympics just days away, Lauren's determination and positivity are truly inspiring, setting the stage for an unforgettable performance on the track.

Key Takeaways:

• Lauren's journey to the Olympics is driven by her goal to break records and showcase Filipino excellence in sports.
• The Filipino-American hurdler emphasizes the role of family, faith, and gratitude in keeping her grounded and motivated.
• The Olympic experience in the diverse and bustling village in Paris has been filled with excitement and meaningful connections.
• Lauren's upcoming race in the women's 400 hurdles represents a historic opportunity for her and the Philippines.
• Messages of love and support from fans and well-wishers are deeply appreciated by Lauren, underscoring the community's role in her journey.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I want to break that record. I want to show the world that Filipinos are fast and strong."
2. "Keeping Christ at the center of it all is really important. Not just athletically, He's the reason I'm here."
3. "Finding strength in God's word and being grounded in faith helps me stay centered amidst the chaos."
4. "Seeing all the support and positive messages means so much to me. Thank you for all the love."
5. "To make semifinals would be historic for the Philippines and make me really proud."

Resources:

• Instagram: Lauren Hoffman

Don't miss out on Lauren's incredible journey at the Olympics; tune in to the full episode for more inspiring moments and stay connected for future episodes filled with enlightening content.

In this episode of the Filipina on the Rise podcast, Krystl talks about the effects of focusing too much on online branding and recognition. Drawing on personal experiences and insightful conversations, she emphasizes the importance of prioritizing genuine connections and self-care over constantly curating an online persona. The episode sheds light on the pitfalls of seeking recognition online and offers valuable advice on how to realign with one's core values and purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Prioritize self-love, treating others well, and taking care of yourself before seeking recognition online.
• Shift the focus from building online recognition to making a tangible positive impact in real-life interactions.
• Embrace a season of introspection and silence to deepen personal connections and align with inner motivations.
• Recognize the value of genuine human connections and impactful one-on-one interactions over online visibility.
• Take a step back to assess your inner alignment, relationships, and personal well-being before engaging in online brand building.

• "Your brand, first and foremost, is how you are in real life with other people."
• "Doing things out of recognition will lead to burnout much quicker."
• "Walk it out before you run and start with self-love and alignment first."

Resources:

• Filipina on the Rise website

Join Krystl in this insightful episode as she encourages listeners to focus on building authentic connections and making a positive impact in their immediate circles. Tune in to the Filipina on the Rise podcast for more empowering content.

Alyssa Lauren Stone is a Bay Area-based writer, Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, and certified Reiki Master. Alyssa delves into her journey of leaving a six-figure Top Sales Executive career to prioritize her health and happiness. In this episode, Alyssa explains how her corporate career negatively impacted her well-being. By tuning into her body, she realized that her efforts to function within the corporate world were merely a band-aid for her adrenal fatigue. Shifting away from the tech industry led to a renunciation of a mindset built on unhealthy consumerism, as she sought a life free from the "golden handcuffs.”  Through her story, Alyssa inspires others to follow their passions and prioritize self-care, showcasing the power of personal growth in navigating life's challenges. Tune in to discover how Alyssa's journey from a tech career to a path of holistic well-being can empower you on your own transformative path.

For free energy healing tools and techniques, sign up for Alyssa Lauren’s newsletter at www.alyssalaurenstone.com/ and get all the latest updates about classes, workshops, and retreats. Follow Alyssa on Instagram @alyssalaurenstone and @marvellousmage. Check out Alyssa’s HuffPost article: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/left-corporate-job-anxiety-yoga_n_65b999f4e4b05c8779f69e74/amp

In this episode, we cover:

• Alyssa's transition from a high-pressure corporate career to a life of health and wellness was driven by the realization that her job was negatively impacting her physical and mental health.
• Mindfulness practices such as yoga, breathwork, and meditation played a crucial role in Alyssa's journey of self-discovery and healing.
• Alyssa emphasizes the importance of finding one's true purpose and following one's passions, even if it means making significant changes in one's life.
• The practice of forgiveness, both towards oneself and others, is a powerful tool for personal growth and healing.
• Alyssa encourages listeners to be kind to themselves and to embrace the process of self-discovery and personal growth.

Join the Filipina Soul Sisterhood:
https://www.filipinaontherise.com/filipinasoulsisterhood

Sponsors:

This show was sponsored by Passion Planner. It’s more than just a planner—it’s a life-changing system that guides you through defining your goals, breaking them down into steps, and acting on them today. Passion Planner helps you identify your dreams and build toward them every day. Find Passion Planner on Instagram or the Passion Planner website and discover the right planner for you.

Elaine Dizon is a mindset and life coach, writer, and recipient of AT&T's highest Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion award at a corporate level -- the Spark Award. She supports individuals who are grappling with work/life integration and want to joyously live life intentionally. She leverages her experience in conscious parenting, performance management coaching, and neuroleadership science to support continuous learning towards outcomes and results. @yourcoachelaine