Latina In America Podcast

From Soil to the Stars with Dr. Aidyl Gonzalez. Her Journey from the Bronx to Alzheimer’s Research, and Her First Zero-G Experience to Prepare for Future Microgravity Research. 

About Dr. G:

Website: https://draidylgonzalez.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/real_dr.g/

Space for Humanity:

Website: https://spaceforhumanity.org/

Zero-G 2026 Cohort: https://spaceforhumanity.org/blog/menteesinzerog-zj3d7-rx2yx

Timestamps:

0:00 “I’m ready, willing, and able to solve this disease” 
0:39 Host intro and episode setup
1:04 How it happened: applying, reaching round two, becoming an alternate
2:39 Why she wants a larger platform (research access for all) 
3:08 Two days later she’s headed to France, carrying her mother’s ashes and a data device 

3:34 Meeting the cohort and Apollo astronaut Charlie Duke
4:29 First moments of weightlessness 
5:03 “Go in zero G” as a lesson in perspective
5:24 Practicing her research settings in the corner
6:33 Interconnection: “we are so much stronger than we give ourselves credit for” 
6:51 Charlie Duke: “This is not a simulation. This is real.” 
7:50 “When opportunity comes, you grab it” 
8:02 Origin story: the Bronx, Operation Bootstrap, the cockroach question
9:22 “There is space for everybody” 
10:12 Representation as hugs; the December 1st YouTube channel 
11:04 The phone call, her “robot mode” checklist, what she packed 
12:41 Meeting the cohort; offering access to each other 
13:15 Training day: body expectations, suits, GoPros 
14:53 The physics: how a plane creates zero-G 
15:46 Three experiences: zero-G, lunar and Mars-style gravity 
16:19 The “smack” of pulling out of the parabola, plus bruises
17:13 Her Alzheimer’s “why” and her family history 
18:27 After the flight: “We did it… but this is just the beginning” 
19:06 What Space for Humanity is and how to apply 
20:44 Seeing Earth from altitude: “further away than ever from the Bronx” 
21:54 Community support system and lifting others
22:59 Lava tube biomats and why diversity matters 
24:33 Alzheimer’s research: environment, epigenetics, gene expression 
26:10 The “two deaths” of Alzheimer’s
26:33 Wrap-up: “From Dr. G to zero G” 

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Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

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Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

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¿Qué se siente cuando miras un escenario, un laboratorio, una página o un quirófano y te reconoces ahí, no como sorpresa, sino como alguien que pertenece? En este episodio de 2026 celebramos los momentos que nos movieron por dentro: los avances en ciencia, las palabras que se convirtieron en herencia, la medicina que se vuelve más humana y los escenarios más grandes del mundo que ahora también cuentan nuestra historia. Pero más allá de los logros, hablamos de algo igual de poderoso: documentar el camino. Porque hay una diferencia entre abrir una puerta y dejarla abierta. Este episodio incluye un poema original sobre valentía, legado y el acto generoso de decirle a quien viene detrás: 

Este Espacio También Es Tuyo

By Rosie

Hay quienes llegaron a cuartos vacíos. 

Y en lugar de rendirse, encendieron la luz. 

No había mapa. No había guía. 

Solo el peso valiente de decir soy capaz. 

Entraron a laboratorios, a escenarios, a páginas, a quirófanos. 

A cumbres. A idiomas prestados y en cada umbral se cruzaron con miedo. 

Dejaron sus huellas grabadas en el prado. 

Así que documenta tu historia. 

No la guardes. 

Es brújula, es herencia, es puerta abierta. 

Lo que tú recorres hoy con esfuerzo, mañana será una ruta cierta.

Porque el acto más grande no es solo llegar, 

es voltear, tender la mano y decir

“Ven. Este espacio también es tuyo y hay más por construir.” 

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Stay in Touch:

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Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

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Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

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What happens when you learn that being different is actually your strength? In this episode of our mini-series Latina Voices in Action, engineer Carmen M. Mercado shares her journey as a Latina in engineering and tech. From designing radar systems to leading as a product manager, Carmen talks about growth, confidence, and the power of community. She is also co-chair of the 2025 SHPE National Convention and explains why finding your familia matters in STEM and in life. 

In this episode, Carmen shares:

• How she transformed being the only Latina in the room into a professional advantage
• Why embracing your story and perspective can be your greatest strength
• How connecting with your familia of mentors and peers drives success
• SHPE
• SHPE National Convention

About Carmen M. Mercado:

• Co-Chair of the 2025 SHPE National Convention (largest U.S. gathering of Hispanic STEM professionals, Philadelphia, Oct 29–Nov 1).
• The U.S. faces a historic engineering shortage; Latinas hold <3% of STEM roles. Carmen leads SHPE efforts recruiting and mentoring women in STEM/STEAM and was the youngest systems lead at Raytheon.

Contact Carmen:

• LinkedIn
• Article: Engineering Equity and Building Belonging

Stay in Touch:

☕ Buy Me a Coffee To Support our Show
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

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Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

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Join the conversation with Dr. Dorothy De Dios Milner, Veterinarian, as she shares her inspiring journey into veterinary medicine, including the challenges, mentors, persistence, and support system that empowered her to build a successful career. She also gives practical tips for keeping pets healthy, happy, and thriving—perfect for pet parents, curious learners, and anyone interested in careers, perseverance, and achieving their goals.

We Cover:

• Growing up between two cultures: How her upbringing shaped her perspective and curiosity.
• Finding her path: The steps she took from undergraduate studies in biology to choosing veterinary medicine.
• Navigating education: How she prepared for veterinary school, including gaining volunteer hours, clinical experience, and mentorship.
• Overcoming financial challenges: Scholarships, work, loans, and a strong support system that made her education possible.
• Clinical rotations: Insights from emergency medicine, surgery, shelter medicine, and more, plus how these experiences shaped her approach to care.
• Practical advice for pet parents: Tips on preventive care, noticing changes in pets, and planning for emergencies.
• Representation and mentorship: The importance of diversity in veterinary medicine and guidance for students exploring this career path.

Don't miss this engaging conversation on veterinary medicine, persistence in pursuing your dreams, and practical advice for pet care!

Connect with Dr. Dorothy:

Instagram: @drdorothy.vet.med

Stay in Touch:

☕ Buy Me a Coffee To Support our Show
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

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Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

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In this season of Latina in America, Rosie welcomes a new chapter celebrating Latinas shaping the future in STEM, business, and culture. From scientists to entrepreneurs and artists, you will hear how curiosity opens doors, how identity creates opportunity, and how determination transforms barriers into stepping stones.

This episode also highlights Hispanic Heritage Month with a special bilingual segment in Spanish, reflecting on the history, contributions, and pride of the Hispanic community in the United States.

Whether you are a returning listener or joining for the first time—bienvenida(o), welcome! Each episode is designed to inspire, empower, and remind us of the impact of sharing our stories.

Connect with me:
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

Instagram: @LatinaInAmerica

Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

Linktree: Latina In America

Stay in Touch:

☕ Buy Me a Coffee To Support our Show
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

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Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

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What do a curious child, a multilingual woman leading communications on a starship, and a Puerto Rican character going to college on TV have in common? For Dr. Aidyl Gonzalez-Serricchio, these moments opened the path from the South Bronx to a life in science.

In this episode of Latina In America, we explore what’s possible when curiosity, representation, and determination come together. Dr. Gonzalez-Serricchio is a Puerto Rican scientist with a Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics from Caltech. She is an accomplished researcher, analog astronaut, STEM educator, and author whose journey has taken her from the South Bronx to space analog missions and research stations in the Arctic. She’s changing the world through education, community science, and storytelling.

Dr. Aidyl Gonzalez-Serricchio is also a NASA Solar System Ambassador and part of The Explorers Club’s 2024 class of "Fifty People Changing the World." A passionate advocate for Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (JEDIB), she holds advisory roles with SparkReach Leadership and STEAM Superheroes—encouraging the next generation, girls, and students from underrepresented communities.

Topics Covered:

• How a curious girl from the South Bronx turned her imagination into a life in science
• The power of representation in science and media
• Learning differences
• Multilingual woman leading a team — and opening doors for the future
• From the South Bronx to Caltech: Her remarkable path to a Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics
• How Dr. Gonzalez is turning science education into a community mission
• Scientific expeditions — Conducting science missions in extreme environments, including the Arctic
• The stories we tell can inspire the innovators of tomorrow
• Science education for communities and classrooms
• How Dr. Gonzalez is mentoring the next generation and making sure everyone belongs in science
• Her bilingual children’s book, Gigi and Nema: Guardians of The Soil

Related Links:

• Dr. Gonzalez’s Website
• STEAM Superheroes
• Instagram @real_dr.g
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aidyl-gonzalez-serricchio/
• Fifty People Changing the World 2024- Dr. Gonzalez-Serrichio
• Soil & Nematode Citizen Science

About Dr. Gonzalez: https://draidylgonzalez.com/rsvp-2-1-1

YouTube - https://youtu.be/j5P8sTc7Iho?si=77AzO_8rIH5E-p2W

Book: Gigi and Nema: Guardians of The Soil

Connect with me:
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

Instagram: @LatinaInAmerica

Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

Linktree: Latina In America

Stay in Touch:

☕ Buy Me a Coffee To Support our Show
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

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Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Brenda Santellano, MD, a physician and clinical oncology researcher dedicated to advancing cancer research and patient care. In this episode, she shares insights on current breakthroughs in screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Here’s what we cover:

• Her journey in medicine and clinical oncology research
• The impact of her latest findings on skin, colorectal, and gastrointestinal cancers
• The importance of cancer screening and early detection
• Advances in technology that are improving diagnosis
• What drives her passion for patient care and medical innovation

Don't miss this insightful discussion on the future of cancer research and the power of early detection!

Connnect with Dr. Brenda Santellano:

Instagram @dr.brennda

Connect with me:
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

Instagram: @LatinaInAmerica

Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

Linktree: Latina In America

Stay in Touch:

☕ Buy Me a Coffee To Support our Show
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

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Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

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A veces, compartir tu pasión puede sentirse raro al principio. Tal vez te da miedo hacerlo “perfecto” o preocuparte por cómo lo van a recibir los demás. Pero la realidad es que hacer lo que amas no requiere ser perfecto. La magia está en ser auténtico y permitir que las cosas fluyan de manera natural.

En este episodio de  Latina in America y Life 100 Podcast, hablamos sobre la importancia de seguir lo que te apasiona sin la presión de las métricas o la perfección. 

• ¿Por qué las personas más auténticas son las que más nos inspiran?
• ¿Cómo compartir tu pasión puede abrirte nuevas puertas y oportunidades que no esperabas?

Aquí te animamos a dar el primer paso, solo por la satisfacción de hacerlo, sin pensar en los resultados inmediatos.

Las personas más auténticas son aquellas que se atreven a mostrar lo que realmente les mueve. Este episodio es un recordatorio de que lo único que necesitas es ser tú mismo y compartir desde el corazón. Al final del día, compartir lo que amas puede transformar tu vida, conectarte con nuevas experiencias, y ofrecerte la oportunidad de ver el mundo de una manera diferente.

Escucha  ideas de cómo puedes comenzar a hacer lo que amas sin complicaciones. ¡Atrévete a dar el primer paso y a compartir lo que te apasiona con el mundo!

Sigue en Contacto:
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

Instagram: @LatinaInAmerica

Other Show: https://life-100.simplecast.com/

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

Linktree: Latina In America

Stay in Touch:

☕ Buy Me a Coffee To Support our Show
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

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Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

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In this special episode, singer-songwriter Nia Padilla shares the heartfelt gift of music. As a finalist in an award-winning Spanish-language talent competition and a performer of the anthem during the 2024 World Series, Nia’s voice has inspired audiences far and wide. Beyond her musical achievements, she is deeply connected to her Mexican-American heritage and passionately supports Latin emerging music artists through her organization in Los Angeles, California. Tune in for an inspiring and inviting conversation, along with enchanting melodies that you’ll enjoy not just this season but all year long.

About Nia @niapadillamusic:

Instagram: @niapadillamusic

LinkTree: Nia Padilla Music

National Anthem Performance  - 2024 World Series 

Tengo Talento Mucho Talento - TTMT 13-ESTEFANIA PADILLA-FINAL

Diane Warren (feat. Nia Padilla) Performance - YouTube

Latin emerging music artists: LA Playground 

Facebook: Nia Padilla Music 

Let's connect:
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

Instagram: @LatinaInAmerica

Other Show: https://life-100.simplecast.com/

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

Linktree: Latina In America

Stay in Touch:

☕ Buy Me a Coffee To Support our Show
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

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Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

Linktree and Contact Us: Rosie and Guests

Join us for the Season Premiere  as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month 2024! In this special bilingual episode, we highlight the vibrant diversity of Hispanic culture and history. We're featuring guests from our last season and showcasing our traditional yearly Spanish celebration. Join our guests in this joyful episode, recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic communities on the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. Enjoy!

Hispanic Heritage Month, originally established in 1968 as National Hispanic Heritage Week, was created to honor the anniversaries of independence for several Latin American countries. In 1988, it was expanded to a month-long celebration, fostering a deeper appreciation of Hispanic and Latino contributions to American culture. Today, it serves as a vibrant platform for cultural festivities, educational programs, and cross-cultural understanding, emphasizing the vital role of Hispanic heritage in shaping the American mosaic.

A big thank you to all the guests from our last season! Your stories, insights, and contributions have made a lasting impact on our listeners, and we're so grateful for your time and dedication. Your voices continue to inspire, and we’re excited to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month 2024 with you! They are:

Adriana Santiago: Nutrition and  Fitness 

Miriam Sanchez: Non-Traditional Path to Medical School

Dr. Christina Acosta: Running on Science

Maritza Becker: The Art of Relocation

Xiomara Palmezzano: From the Lab to the Amazon Jungle

Deondra Montgomery:  Neuroscience Graduate on Becoming a Doctor, Una Doctora

Un agradecimiento especial a quienes participaron en la celebración tradicional en español. ¡Gracias!

Share this episode with your friends and family. You can listen on your favorite podcast platform, and don't forget to follow us on Instagram @latinainamerica for more updates and content.

Let's connect:
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

Instagram: @LatinaInAmerica

Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

Linktree: Latina In America

Stay in Touch:

☕ Buy Me a Coffee To Support our Show
Website: LatinaInAmericaPodcast.com

Instagram - Rosie and Guests

Other Show: Life 100 Podcast

Article: Life 100 Podcast featured on OPRAH Magazine (@oprahdaily) #26

Linktree and Contact Us: Rosie and Guests