Episode Title: How we Got Here

Hosts: Stacy Braga & Lesley Braga

In this episode of Unapologetically First Gen, sisters Stacy and Lesley dive into their Azorean heritage, sharing personal stories of growing up as first-generation immigrants from the Azores, a set of nine small islands in the middle of the Atlantic. They explore the unique customs, history, and immigration patterns of the Azorean people, along with heartfelt and humorous anecdotes from their own family’s journey.

• The history of Azorean immigration, including why waves of Azoreans moved to the U.S., Canada, and Brazil.
• The cultural distinctions of the Azores, including language, food, and traditions.
• Personal family stories about growing up with immigrant parents who worked tirelessly to build a new life in America.
• How their parents’ experience shaped their own identity and values.
• The contrast between childhood summers in the Azores vs. growing up in New England.
• The deep connection between memory and senses—especially the nostalgic power of food and smell.

• 00:01:41 - Introduction to the podcast and today’s topic: Azorean identity and immigration.
• 02:13 - The unique culture of the Azores and how accents differ across the islands.
• 04:36 - The struggles of growing up in a fascist regime and extreme poverty.
• 09:13 - The realities of early education in the Azores, working young, and the significance of having a pair of shoes.
• 13:59 - The journey of their parents’ immigration, the risk of starting over, and their early struggles in America.
• 18:27 - Nostalgic memories of summers in the Azores, childhood adventures, and making lifelong connections with food and traditions.
• 23:08 - The importance of community in Azorean culture, including traditional feasts and resourcefulness in farming life.
• 25:28 - How their parents adapted to life in the U.S. while working multiple jobs to support their family.
• Ending - Reflections on first-generation experiences and the value of embracing both cultures.

• "There are more cows in the Azores than there are people."
• "Our parents took one big risk—moving to a new country—and then decided they were done with risks for life."
• "Nothing beats fresh bread coming out of a wood-fired oven. The smell instantly takes me back."

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Until next time—keep embracing your roots and making your own path!