Welcome to the Inspirame Latina podcast with your host, Yudy Veras Bueno.

Yudy is the Founder, Executive Director and Program Curator of Inspirame Latina, a non-profit organization that focuses on bringing diverse expertise, a shared vision, and a commitment to ensuring Latinas feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Yudy is also a Professional Life Coach, Healer, Fearless Women Empowerment Advocate, Speaker, and Author. She is the CEO and Founder of Y Veras Coaching.

Links:

Inspirame Latina Foundation: inspiramelatina.org

In this episode, we sit down with the extraordinary Dr. Karen Díaz Meaike to explore what it truly means to rebuild, redesign, and reimagine your life on your own terms. From her 22-year career in social work to becoming a multi-state real estate professional and the first-ever Blushington franchise owner, Dr. Karen’s journey reminds us that change isn’t something to fear - it’s something to claim.

We dive into the courage it takes to step away from “safe,” the quiet battles women face when redefining themselves, and the stereotypes Latinas are expected to break through without breaking their culture. Together, we explore identity, imposter syndrome, the art of starting over, and the power of becoming the woman you once looked for.

This conversation is honest, soulful, and rooted in community wisdom - offering clarity, permission, and the reminder that evolution is not only possible, but necessary.

“Safe also means depriving yourself.”

Dr. Karen’s words echo throughout this episode as an invitation: to try the thing, make the leap, and choose yourself without apology.

Whether you’re navigating a transition, craving purpose, or rebuilding your confidence, this episode is filled with the insight and inspiration you need to move forward with heart.

If this conversation moves you, please share it with someone who needs it. And remember to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Inspirame Latina, empowerment begins with a conversation.

Guest Speaker Bio:

Real Estate Entrepreneur   I   Founder, The Ladies Legacy Initiative   I   Board Member, Inspírame Latina Foundation

Website: https://kdmrealtor.com   I  Instagram: karendiazmeaike  

Dr. Karen Díaz Meaike is a powerhouse real estate entrepreneur, visionary leader, and the founder of The Ladies Legacy Initiative, a platform dedicated to empowering women through leadership, community, and intentional connection.

With extensive experience across luxury real estate in both Connecticut and South Florida, Karen has become one of the region’s most trusted and respected professionals. Known for her integrity, strategic insight, and ability to turn properties into lasting legacies, she continues to redefine what’s possible for women in business.

Karen is also the first-ever franchisee of Blushington Boca Raton, bringing accessible luxury beauty to her community. A passionate advocate for women across industries, she is the creator of Bloom in Beauty, a curated experiential event celebrating confidence, inner radiance, and the power of sisterhood.

As a board member of the Inspírame Latina Foundation, she remains committed to uplifting, representing, and amplifying Latina voices in leadership. Whether she’s negotiating multimillion-dollar deals, curating transformative experiences, or mentoring the next generation of powerhouse women, Karen leads with purpose, presence, and an unwavering belief in legacy over trends.

Her mission is simple, to help women rise, lead, and live lives worthy of their own legacy.

Welcome to the Inspirame Latina podcast with your host, Yudy Veras Bueno.

Yudy is the Founder, Executive Director and Program Curator of Inspirame Latina, a non-profit organization that focuses on bringing diverse expertise, a shared vision, and a commitment to ensuring Latinas feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Yudy is also a Professional Life Coach, Healer, Fearless Women Empowerment Advocate, Speaker, and Author. She is the CEO and Founder of Y Veras Coaching.

Links:

Inspirame Latina Foundation: inspiramelatina.org 

Y Veras Coaching: yveras.com 

Yudy Veras Speaking: https://coachyudy.com  

In this episode, we explore what it truly means to pause: to rest, breathe, and remember that caring for yourself is not selfish, it’s survival.

Karina Muller, Founder & CEO of Maripossa Wellness, shares her journey from global corporate life to building spaces that help others heal, reset, and lead from wholeness.

We talk about the quiet weight many Latinas carry, the guilt of slowing down, the pressure to be everything for everyone and how to reclaim peace through small, consistent acts of self-care.

💬 The Latina expectation of self-sacrifice and how to unlearn it

💬 Simple tools for restoring your energy, in five, ten, or fifteen minutes

💬 The courage to ask for help and scale your purpose with heart

💬 Why collaboration, not competition, is how our community truly grows

Whether you’re leading a team, raising a family, or just trying to catch your breath, this conversation will remind you: rest is not weakness, it’s how we rise.

Empowerment begins with a conversation.

Guest Speaker Bio:

Karina Muller

Founder & CEO, Maripossa Wellness

MBA, Cornell University | Corporate & Workplace Wellness | Co-Founder, Motivity Care

🌐 Connect: maripossawellness.com  |  LinkedIn: karinamuller 

Karina Muller is the Founder and CEO of Maripossa Wellness, a company dedicated to transforming how people experience well-being at work and at home. With more than 25 years in global corporate environments, Karina brings a rare blend of strategy, empathy, and lived experience to every room she enters.

A graduate of Cornell University’s MBA program, she holds multiple certifications in workplace wellness, stress management, and integrative health. Through Maripossa Wellness, she designs programs that meet people where they are, from hospital teams and startups to Fortune 500 leaders, helping them find practical ways to pause, reset, and thrive.

Karina also co-founded Motivity Care, a platform simplifying caregiving management, and serves on the board of United Latinas, championing representation and leadership for Latina professionals.

Her philosophy is simple: wellness shouldn’t feel like another task on your to-do list, it should feel like coming home to yourself.

This episode of the Inspirame Latina Podcast is proudly sponsored by Every Task Skilled Virtual Assistants, a partner in empowering women to focus on purpose over pressure. Every Task supports entrepreneurs and changemakers behind the scenes, so they can keep showing up boldly in front of them.

Welcome to the Inspirame Latina podcast with your host, Yudy Veras Bueno.

Yudy is the Founder, Executive Director and Program Curator of Inspirame Latina, a non-profit organization that focuses on bringing diverse expertise, a shared vision, and a commitment to ensuring Latinas feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Yudy is also a Professional Life Coach, Healer, Fearless Women Empowerment Advocate, Speaker, and Author. She is the CEO and Founder of Y Veras Coaching.

Links:

In this episode, we explore what it means to grow up between cultures, to feel both connected and disconnected, proud yet questioned, and how storytelling becomes a bridge back home.

Jasdomin Santana, author of Los Tres Golpes Mangú and founder of Dominican Fairy Tales, opens up about raising bicultural children, preserving identity through stories, and the freedom that comes from embracing every part of who you are.

We dive into her journey from banking executive to children’s author, covering:

💬 The importance of cultural representation in early childhood

💬 The struggle for belonging between two worlds

💬 How Dominican traditions can live on through creativity

💬 Redefining what it means to be Latina in America

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or first-generation dreamer, this conversation will remind you that identity isn’t something you lose, it’s something you evolve.

Empowerment begins with a conversation.

Guest Speaker Bio:

Jasdomin Santana  

Executive Director in Banking | Author | Storyteller

Jasdomin Santana is a devoted mother of two toddlers, a loving wife, and a banking Executive Director by day, and a passionate storyteller by night. Born in New York and inspired by her Dominican heritage, she has published 15 bilingual children’s books that celebrate Dominican culture, family, and everyday magic.

Her work includes the acclaimed Dominican Fairy Tales series and the viral anthem In My Dominican Era, which inspired a growing online community of bicultural women and parents reclaiming their roots. Jasdomin also launched a YouTube channel for children, teaching Dominican culture through animated stories, music, and educational resources.

With multiple degrees in Organizational Leadership, Management, and Computer Information Systems, Jasdomin merges intellect with heart,  proving that heritage, ambition, and motherhood can coexist beautifully.

Her mission is simple yet powerful: to help every child see themselves in the stories they read.

🌐 Connect: jasdomin.com  |  Instagram: @jasdominsantana  |    📩 [email protected]

Welcome to the Inspirame Latina podcast with your host, Yudy Veras Bueno.

Yudy is the Founder, Executive Director and Program Curator of Inspirame Latina, a non-profit organization that focuses on bringing diverse expertise, a shared vision, and a commitment to ensuring Latinas feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Yudy is also a Professional Life Coach, Healer, Fearless Women Empowerment Advocate, Speaker, and Author. She is the CEO and Founder of Y Veras Coaching.

Links:

In this episode, we explore the intersection of sustainability, healing, and identity with Gabriela Fiorentino, founder of Nest Earth.

Gabi shares how she transformed her background in architecture and environmental design into a mission of creating low-tox, intentional spaces that nurture both people and the planet.

We dive into what it means to live consciously in a culture built on consumption, covering topics like redefining wellness, setting boundaries in motherhood, and finding balance between beauty, sustainability, and simplicity.

Our conversation includes her insights on overcoming cultural expectations, releasing perfectionism, and embracing small, meaningful changes that lead to lasting transformation. Gabi reminds us that sustainability isn’t about doing it all, it’s about doing what feels right.

Whether you’re a parent, creative, or woman seeking alignment, this episode is filled with grounded wisdom and practical ways to reconnect with your environment, and yourself.

Subscribe, share this conversation, and take one small step toward a more intentional life today.

Guest Speaker Bio:

📩 [email protected]   I  🌐 www.nestearth.com  I  Instagram: @gabrielafiorentino I  LinkedIn: @Gabriela Fiorentino

Gabriela Fiorentino is the founder of Nest Earth, a platform helping parents and conscious individuals design low-tox, intentional spaces rooted in real-life solutions. With a Master’s in Architecture and Urban Design from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Architecture with Honours from Pratt Institute, Gabriela has spent over a decade bridging the gap between sustainability and everyday life.

As a LEED Accredited Professional (BD+C), her work combines design, wellness, and environmental strategy to help families create homes that nurture both body and mind. Her approach is deeply human, translating complex sustainability principles into compassionate, practical shifts that feel accessible, not aspirational.

Guided by the belief that wellness isn’t about perfection, it’s about alignment, simplicity, and kindness, Gabriela’s voice carries both authority and empathy. As a Latina navigating motherhood, entrepreneurship, and healing, she brings a perspective that is as professional as it is personal, reminding us that true sustainability begins at home, and within ourselves.

Welcome to the Inspirame Latina podcast with your host, Yudy Veras Bueno.

Yudy is the Founder, Executive Director and Program Curator of Inspirame Latina, a non-profit organization that focuses on bringing diverse expertise, a shared vision, and a commitment to ensuring Latinas feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Yudy is also a Professional Life Coach, Healer, Fearless Women Empowerment Advocate, Speaker, and Author. She is the CEO and Founder of Y Veras Coaching.

Links:

In this episode, we explore the journey of resilience, reinvention, and visibility with Kim Baker, visionary founder of Glamazon Beauty Cosmetics.

We dive into her powerful story of rising from the challenges of single motherhood, financial hardship, and even facing a federal prison sentence at 18, to becoming a celebrated makeup artist and entrepreneur.

Our conversation includes the realities of overcoming shame, learning self-worth, and building integrity while navigating an industry often lacking authenticity. Kim shares how faith, prayer, and determination carried her from eviction notices to owning the home she once dreamed of, and from early modeling to creating a beauty brand rooted in empowerment.

Packed with encouragement and practical wisdom, this episode is a reminder that your past does not define your future, it prepares you for it.

Whether you're a young woman chasing big dreams, a mother building legacy, or anyone striving to rise after setbacks, this episode offers insight and inspiration to help you find your voice and own your power.

Don’t just listen, share this episode with someone who needs to be reminded that second chances create powerful stories.

Guest Speaker Bio

Kim Baker | Founder of Glamazon Beauty Cosmetics

📧 [email protected]   | 🌐 glamazonbeauty.com  I  Instagram: makeupbykimbaker  I  LinkedIn: Kim Baker

Kim Baker is the visionary founder of Glamazon Beauty, the first-ever Black-owned beauty brand to launch on Shop HQ and one of the fastest-growing colour cosmetics lines now available on HSN and TSC. With over two decades in the beauty industry, she is a former Wilhelmina model turned celebrity makeup artist who has worked with A-list stars like Tiffany Haddish, Tom Cruise, and Toni Braxton.

Her mission with Glamazon Beauty is simple yet powerful: to help women embrace their bold, confident alter ego. Through curated, intentional products that adapt to every woman’s journey, Kim empowers others to express their true selves with authenticity, simplicity, and confidence.

Welcome to the Inspirame Latina podcast with your host, Yudy Veras Bueno.

Yudy is the Founder, Executive Director and Program Curator of Inspirame Latina, a non-profit organization that focuses on bringing diverse expertise, a shared vision, and a commitment to ensuring Latinas feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Yudy is also a Professional Life Coach, Healer, Fearless Women Empowerment Advocate, Speaker, and Author. She is the CEO and Founder of Y Veras Coaching.

Links:

In this episode, we explore the journey of resilience, faith, and reinvention with master hairstylist and entrepreneur Angelita Suriel.

We dive into her powerful story of building a thriving salon business, losing it during the pandemic, and finding the courage to start again alongside her daughter.

Our conversation includes the challenges of navigating fear, shame, and loss, and the strategies Angelita used to reclaim her confidence through faith, therapy, and community. She shares not only the struggles but also the actionable steps and mindset shifts that helped her transform darkness into a new chapter of possibility.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, immigrant, or woman striving to overcome obstacles, this episode is packed with inspiration, encouragement, and a reminder that investing in your own healing is the first step toward building something greater.

Don’t just listen, share this episode with someone who needs to be reminded that they are not alone, and that starting over is always possible.

Angelita Suriel  I  Entrepreneur & Beauty Salon Owner

+1 (646) 249-0110

Angelita Suriel is a master hairstylist, educator, and soulful entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience. Born in the Dominican Republic, she moved to New York at 30 and has spent 28 years building a legacy of excellence. She is the founder of Angela Beauty NY (8 years strong) and now co-founder of A&P Beauty, created with her daughter.

Angelita serves a diverse clientele across all hair types and textures, with mastery in cutting, colour, and extensions. She’s especially known for enhancing curly hair, now the foundation of her new professional training programs.

Her mission is to help people feel seen, celebrated, and cared for, inside and out. Her salon suite is a sanctuary filled with love, warmth, and deep intention. She believes beauty is a healing art, and teaching is her next sacred calling.

Angelita’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of reinvention. Her guiding principle is simple but profound: even when life breaks you down, you must rise, heal, and create again.

Welcome to the Inspirame Latina podcast with your host, Yudy Veras Bueno.

Yudy is the Founder, Executive Director and Program Curator of Inspirame Latina, a non-profit organization that focuses on bringing diverse expertise, a shared vision, and a commitment to ensuring Latinas feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Yudy is also a Professional Life Coach, Healer, Fearless Women Empowerment Advocate, Speaker, and Author. She is the CEO and Founder of Y Veras Coaching.

Links:

In this episode, we explore the journey of visibility, healing, and empowerment with Tina Arroyo, Account Executive at iHeartMedia.

We dive into what it means to feel unseen in a world of constant noise, covering the importance of reclaiming your voice, building confidence, and breaking cycles of silence.

Our conversation includes Tina’s reflections on overcoming domestic violence, navigating self-doubt, and learning to heal not just for herself, but for future generations. She also shares practical advice on how entrepreneurs and small business owners can amplify their presence, from embracing social media to owning their stories with courage.

Whether you’re a woman striving to be seen, a business owner seeking visibility, or someone navigating the healing journey, this episode is packed with inspiration and guidance to remind you that your voice matters.

Subscribe, share this conversation with someone who needs encouragement, and remember: empowerment begins with a conversation.

Tina Arroyo  I   Account Executive, iHeartMedia 

[email protected]

+1 (914) 843 8797

Tina Arroyo is a seasoned media professional who has spent her career helping brands connect with audiences through creative, impactful advertising solutions across radio, digital, and live platforms. At iHeartMedia, she partners with clients to design strategies that deliver real results. Beyond her professional role, Tina is deeply engaged in community service, serving on the InspiraMe Latina board, co-chairing committees, and building strong relationships that empower others.

Tina’s mission is rooted in empowerment and inclusivity. Through her work and advocacy, she strives to ensure that no one feels invisible, believing wholeheartedly that everyone deserves to shine.

Welcome to the Inspirame Latina podcast with your host, Yudy Veras Bueno.

Links:

In this episode, we explore how Latinas are reshaping generational narratives around wealth, success, and self-worth.

Our conversation includes real talk about scarcity mindsets, breaking taboos around money, overcoming fear of ownership and risk, and the unique power Latinas hold when given access to financial knowledge. This episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom to help you shift your money mindset and build a legacy rooted in purpose, not pressure.

Whether you're a young professional, a business owner, or simply someone determined to create financial stability for your family, this episode is packed with insight, healing, and hope.

Please subscribe, like, and share with your network—especially the mujeres in your life who are ready to take control of their financial future.

Guest Speaker Bio:

Amber T. Rodriguez is a Vice President and Business Banking Relationship Manager at Bank of America, where she specializes in helping small and mid-sized businesses scale with access to capital, strategic financial solutions, and operational efficiency.

Through her work, Amber supports entrepreneurs—especially women and Hispanic/Latino business owners—in building strong financial foundations that lead to long-term growth. She is known for helping clients secure funding, improve liquidity, navigate financial risk, and streamline operations through tech-forward solutions.

Amber also serves on Bank of America’s NJ Hispanic-Latino Business Council and NJ Women’s Initiative Committee, championing financial education and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. She volunteers regularly and serves as CFO and Business Administrator for TTA Empire Inc., a veteran-owned nonprofit focused on social impact.

Amber’s guiding mission is simple but powerful: educate, empower, and elevate her community—one business owner at a time.

Welcome to the Inspirame Latina podcast with your host, Yudy Veras Bueno.

Links:

In this episode, we dive into a powerful and emotional conversation between mother and daughter: Dr. Karen Diaz Meaike and her daughter Kaylee. Together, they reflect on generational trauma, the pressures of success, identity, and what it takes to raise emotionally intelligent and culturally grounded children. From Dr. Karen’s journey of healing childhood trauma and building a successful career in social work, to Kaylee’s insights as a Gen Z graduate student navigating mental health and cultural duality—this episode bridges generational gaps with honesty, empathy, and wisdom.

We explore the difference between good fear and bad fear, the value of being seen and heard, and how children of color need both structure and support to thrive. Whether you're a parent trying to connect with your child, or a young adult honoring your roots while building your future, this episode reminds us that healing begins at home—and legacy is shaped by love, listening, and leading by example.

💬 Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with your community, and continue the conversation at your own kitchen table. Empowerment begins with a conversation.

Guest Speaker Bio:

Dr. Karen Diaz Meaike, DSW, LCSW

Karen Diaz Meaike is a powerhouse real estate entrepreneur, visionary leader, and the founder of The Ladies Legacy Initiative—a platform built to empower women through leadership, community, and intentional connection.With extensive experience in luxury real estate, Karen has become one of South Florida’s most trusted names, known for her integrity, strategic expertise, and the ability to turn properties into lasting legacies. She is also the first-ever franchisee of Blushington in Boca Raton, bringing accessible luxury beauty to her community.

A passionate advocate for elevating women across industries, Karen is the creator and visionary behind Bloom in Beauty, a highly curated event that celebrates confidence, inner radiance, and the power of sisterhood. She also sits on the board of the Inspírame Latina Foundation, continuing her mission to uplift, represent, and amplify Latina voices in leadership.

Whether she’s negotiating multimillion-dollar deals, curating transformative events, or mentoring the next generation of powerhouse women, Karen leads with purpose, presence, and an unwavering belief in legacy over trends.

Kaylee Diaz, Graduate Student in School Psychology

Kaylee is currently pursuing her graduate degree in School Psychology, inspired by her upbringing and her passion for helping children thrive emotionally and academically. With a deep awareness of cultural stigma around mental health, Kaylee is committed to reshaping how schools evaluate and support students—especially bilingual and bicultural youth who are often misdiagnosed or overlooked.

She brings a fresh, insightful Gen Z perspective on intergenerational connection, emotional intelligence, and what it means to carry cultural pride while still defining your own path.

In this episode, we explore the powerful dynamics of generational healing, identity, and resilience within Latina families through a heartfelt and raw conversation between Dominican immigrant mother Yajaira Alvarez and her 19-year-old daughter, Ileana. Together, they reflect on their evolving relationship, cultural duality, and the importance of bridging generational gaps through honest dialogue and mutual understanding.

Yajaira shares her journey of raising children in the U.S. while carrying the values, expectations, and struggles of her Dominican upbringing. Ileana, born and raised in America, opens up about navigating the complexities of identity, the pressure of living up to her parents’ sacrifices, and finding her own voice as a Gen Z Latina. Their story is one of deep cultural reflection, vulnerability, and transformation—highlighting the emotional legacy of immigrant families and the unspoken challenges that come with it.

This episode dives into powerful themes like parental overprotection, the fear of failure, the pressure to succeed, and the tension between tradition and adaptation. Yajaira and Ileana offer rich insight on how to maintain cultural values while embracing change, how to raise conscious and confident children in a new land, and how both generations can meet each other with grace, empathy, and trust.

Whether you’re a parent striving to understand your child, a young adult seeking your place in two cultures, or simply someone invested in intergenerational healing, this conversation will move you. It’s a reminder that the bridge between generations is built not just with love—but with listening, reflection, and the courage to grow together.

Subscribe, like, and share this episode with your community. This is a conversation every Latina family needs to hear.

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Guest Speakers: