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Laura Benitez discusses her upbringing as a biracial individual with a Puerto Rican father and a white Dutch mother. She shares stories about her parents' meeting and their move from New York to Arizona. Laura talks about her experiences growing up in Tucson and San Jose, where she felt a sense of cultural confusion and had to constantly explain her identity. She reflects on the challenges of filling out forms and choosing one racial category, as well as the lack of belonging she felt in college. These experiences impacted her self-esteem and made her feel like there was something wrong with her. Laura Benitez shares her experience of embracing her multiracial identity and the challenges she faced growing up. She discusses the importance of direct conversations about racism and the need for parents to support their multicultural children. Laura also talks about the impact of her father coming out as gay and the fractures it caused within her family. She reflects on her journey of self-discovery and the racial reckoning that led her to embrace her identity. Finally, she discusses her music career and how her cultural identity influenced her music. Laura Benitez discusses her journey into music, particularly country music, and how it resonated with her. She shares how she was introduced to different genres and found a connection with country music because of its honest storytelling and female empowerment. Laura talks about her experience as a musician and the challenges she faced in the industry. She also emphasizes the importance of storytelling and cultural exploration in finding one's identity. Laura shares her recipe for world peace, which is to tell your story.

takeaways
Growing up as a biracial individual can be challenging, especially when trying to navigate multiple cultural identities.
The pressure to choose one racial category on forms and applications can be frustrating and can contribute to a sense of not belonging.
Having a support system and someone to talk to about the experiences of being biracial can be invaluable.
It is important to recognize and address microaggressions and racism that biracial individuals may face. Direct conversations about racism are important for parents to have with their multicultural children
Embracing one's multiracial identity can be a journey of self-discovery
The racial reckoning of 2019-2020 had a significant impact on how Laura viewed her identity
Laura's music career was influenced by her cultural identity and her love for folk music Country music resonated with Laura because of its honest storytelling and female empowerment.
Exploring different genres and cultural backgrounds can help in finding one's identity.
The music industry can be challenging, but perseverance and passion are key.
Telling your story and sharing your experiences can contribute to world peace.

Chapters
00:00
Upbringing and Parents' Meeting
03:22
Moving to Tucson and San Jose
06:03
Cultural Confusion and Lack of Belonging
11:29
Father's Assimilation and Identity
13:27
Mother's Dutch Heritage and Religion
16:06
Mother's Relationship with Hispanic/Latinx Identity
18:39
Identity and Perception in School
22:26
Seeking Solace and Belonging
25:00
Embracing Multiracial Identity and the Challenges Faced
32:46
The Impact of Coming Out on Family Dynamics
35:37
Journey of Self-Discovery and Racial Reckoning
38:21
The Influence of Cultural Identity on Music Career
52:08
Introduction to Laura Benitez and her journey into music
58:40
Starting to write songs and finding her voice
01:05:06
The challenges and rewards of being a musician
01:09:18
The power of storytelling and its role in world peace

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Welcome to Episode 18 of the Multiracialverse Podcast, where we explore the busy intersections of identity, culture, and personal growth. In today’s episode, we’re excited to kick off our inaugural segment of Reclaim Your Name, a powerful exploration of the significance and meaning behind the names that shape who we are.

We believe, honoring someone's name is more than a formality—it's a way of recognizing their identity, heritage, and story. A name carries history, connection, and pride, and when we honor it, we validate someone's place in the world and their right to exist fully and authentically.

In this episode, we sit down with Sanaz Soltani, a first-generation American Iranian who grew up in Southern California. Sanaz has spent over 10 years in healthcare administration and is a passionate advocate for health and wellness. She recently became a first-time published author of the children’s book Auntie’s Little Bestie, now available on Amazon. But today, she shares something deeply personal—how her relationship with her name has evolved. After years of being bullied for her name, allowing people to mispronounce it, and shying away from things she loved because of the teasing, Sanaz has found pride and strength in reclaiming her name. Join us as she tells her story of self-esteem, cultural pride, and the journey to embracing her full identity.

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Welcome to Episode 17 of the Multiracialverse Podcast! I’m your host, Antonio Fernandez, and today we have an esteemed guest—Dr. Joanna Thompson. Dr. Thompson is a Black, Latina, and Queer leader who’s dedicated her life to driving change and advancing equity. With a strong academic background in criminology, Dr. Thompson’s work extends beyond corporate walls, shedding light on the complex intersections of mixed-race identity, victimization, and social justice. From her impactful research to her grassroots activism, she has touched lives in academia, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and beyond. In her current role, she serves as the Director of Diversity, Equity.

In today’s episode, Dr. Thompson shares about all the different facets of identity and her lifelong journey to understanding and embracing every aspect of who she is. She shares how discovering and embracing each facet of her heritage has been like putting together a puzzle—one that reveals the whole, authentic individual she is today. Join us for an enlightening conversation that promises to challenge your perspectives and inspire meaningful action.

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Welcome to Episode 16 of the Multiracialverse Podcast! It’s been a minute! Thank you for hanging in there with us as life life’s on! My name is still  Antonio Fernandez, and I'm your host, and today, we have a truly inspiring guest joining us—Jaime Lopez. Jaime is an award-winning activist, a first-generation Latinx gay male who’s not only made waves in the healthcare industry but is also redefining what it means to represent these identities. With over 18 years of experience in patient care and a history of climbing the ranks, using his representation in corporate America as a beacon for other youth in BIPOC and underserved communities to follow. Jaime’s story is one of resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to serving his community.

In this episode, Jaime shares his journey from his roots in San Bernardino County to becoming a leader in health care administration, all while championing Latinx and LGBTQ+ communities. He opens up about his experiences, the challenges he’s faced, and the victories that have shaped him into the powerhouse he is today. Tune in for a conversation full of positivity, wisdom, and inspiration that will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on your own challenges.

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John Siegel is a management consultant with an accomplished background of over 20 years in technology and leadership. He has held key positions as the Director of Information Technology at a nonprofit organization in Los Angeles, CA serving the unhoused community, and is currently a Managed Service Delivery Manager at North Highland consulting in Portland, OR. John is an alumnus of California State University, Northridge, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Management Information Systems.

John was privately adopted into his family shortly after birth in the early 1970s, and his parents informed him at a young age he had Native American ancestry.  Without any knowledge of a specific tribe or the origins of that lineage, John spent most of his adult life fascinated by the idea of where those roots began.  With the help of online DNA testing services, John recently discovered his true Indigenous American roots and has been able to reconnect with his biological family members, including two half-siblings on his paternal Indigenous side.  After a lifetime of wondering if John would ever find his tribe, he achieved his dream on June 24, 2023 as he and his 10-year old daughter Olivia became enrolled citizens of the Chemehuevi Indian Tribe of California.

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Sharon shares her experience growing up in a multiracial family in New York, with a Puerto Rican Catholic father and an Ashkenazi Jewish mother. She discusses the challenges her parents faced as a multiracial couple and the cultural traditions they passed down, particularly through food. Sharon reflects on her own identity and the complexities of belonging to multiple cultures. She also explores the significance of her Ashkenazi Jewish heritage and the role of education in her family. In this conversation, Sharon discusses the pressure she felt from her family regarding her education and the decision to take a gap year. She shares her journey of choosing a college major and how she ended up studying art semiotics. Sharon also explores the influence of her cultural background on her spirituality and sense of identity. She talks about her work as a yoga teacher and nutrition coach, emphasizing the importance of an integrative approach to wellness. Finally, Sharon discusses her upcoming yoga and cultural adventure retreat in Sicily.

takeaways

• Growing up in a multiracial family can provide a rich and unique cultural experience.
• Cultural traditions and food play a significant role in shaping identity and creating a sense of belonging.
• Identity can be complex and influenced by how others perceive us.
• Education can be both a source of empowerment and a challenge within a multiracial family. Family pressure can play a significant role in shaping educational decisions, but it's important to prioritize personal goals and aspirations.
• Choosing a college major can be a process of exploration and discovery, and it's okay to change paths along the way.
• Cultural background and family experiences can influence spirituality and a sense of identity.
• An integrative approach to wellness, combining physical and spiritual practices, can lead to a more holistic and fulfilling life.
• Traveling and experiencing different cultures can broaden perspectives and deepen understanding of one's own identity.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

03:20
Growing Up in New York

08:01
Challenges of Being a Multiracial Couple

12:15
Language and Cultural Identity

25:19
Identity and Belonging

29:07
Ashkenazi Jewish Identity

36:25
Exploring Identity in College

37:54
Pressure from Family and Taking a Gap Year

39:12
Choosing a College Major

41:36
Studying Art Semiotics

43:07
Influence of Cultural Background

46:43
Spirituality and Family Background

49:46
Living in Different Places and Sense of Identity

53:28
Belonging and Internal Identity

55:21
Work as a Yoga Teacher and Nutrition Coach

59:20
Yoga and Cultural Adventure Retreats

01:01:46
Preserving Cultural Identity

01:03:36
Multiculturalism in Sicily

01:06:46
Recipe for World Peace

01:08:24
Upcoming Yoga and Cultural Adventure Retreat

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Welcome back to the Multiracialverse Podcast! This is episode 13 and I'm your host, Antonio Fernandez. In today's episode, we have the incredible Sophie Kanno joining us. Many of you know Sophie from her online presence as Asian Soph or the Multiracial Wonder Woman. Soph is a passionate activist, community creator, and expert in antiracism and allyship.

Sophie's journey as a mixed-race Japanese, German, Scottish, and Welsh individual has led her to become a champion for multiracial communities. She runs her own Digital Marketing Agency, and she's the force behind Mixedpresent, a community space dedicated to multiracial experiences.

Today, Sophie shares her unique perspective on navigating identity, heritage, and the challenges faced by API and BIPOC communities. We also delve into her family's history, from her parents' meeting to her deep connection with her grandmother.

Get ready for an enlightening conversation as we discuss spirituality, the immigrant struggle, and so much more. There is no better representative to celebrate Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Sophie Kanno!

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 Iris Toomey is a 3rd-year Psychology major at the University of California, Los Angeles.  She currently holds the role of Internal Outreach Director for UCLA Mixed Student Union. She is mixed Black and Asian and enjoys cooking Korean food in her free time. 

Welcome to Episode 12 of the Multiracialverse Podcast! I'm your host, Antonio Fernandez. Today, we're joined by Iris Toomey, a remarkable individual with a unique perspective on the multiracial experience.

Iris is a third-year Psychology major at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she serves as the Internal Outreach Director for UCLA's Mixed Student Union. As someone who is mixed Black and Asian, Iris navigates the complexities of identity with grace and insight.

In our conversation, we delve into Iris's journey of being biracial while facing the challenge of looking ethnically ambiguous. We explore her role within the UCLA Mixed Student Union, where she acts as an ambassador, helping others find a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Furthermore, Iris shares her aspirations in the field of psychology, where she aims to leverage her own experiences to support other mixed-race individuals on their path to self-discovery and empowerment.

Join us as we uncover the layers of Iris's story and gain valuable insights into the multiracial experience. Stay tuned for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to inspire and enlighten.

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Victor Rios, a British-Bolivian actor, recent credits on roles in "Mallorca Files" Officer Nogueira and "4Stories: On The Edge Series 2 - BMW," as well as the award-winning short film "500" and "The Wedding Pact," honoured at the Indonesia Film Festival. A member of various esteemed theatrical organisations, Victor showcased his creative prowess in writing and directing "Don't Close The Door" at the Barons Court Theatre, and currently working on his one-man show “How British Are You” which is preparing for touring.

Currently heading FilmLocos, a production company, Victor passionately advocates for diversity in filmmaking, especially within the British Latino community. With a commitment to inclusivity. Victor Rios continues to contribute significantly to the evolving narrative of diversity in the film industry.

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Dr. Jenn, a multiracial psychologist, discusses her background and journey as a multiracial person. She shares how her parents exposed her to both her Sri Lankan and African American cultures, shaping her identity. Dr. Jenn became aware of how the world saw her differently and had to navigate the contrast between her self-perception and others' perceptions. In college, she developed a strong interest in researching mixed-race identity, which led her to focus on this area in her psychology practice. Dr. Jenn emphasizes the importance of empowering multiracial individuals to assert their identity and helping parents support their children's mixed-race identity. She recommends starting conversations about race and culture at a young age and provides techniques for navigating identity and dealing with microaggressions. In this conversation, Dr. Jenn discusses the challenges and importance of embracing and understanding cultural identities, particularly for mixed-race individuals. She highlights the detrimental effects of hiding cultural identities and the need for parents to support their children's exploration of their heritage. Dr. Jenn also explores the impact of culture on mental health and the strengths that mixed-race individuals develop, such as cognitive flexibility and acceptance of diverse groups. She emphasizes the importance of institutions, such as schools and healthcare providers, recognizing and supporting mixed-race individuals. Dr. Jenn concludes with a reminder to love oneself first as a path to loving others and achieving world peace.

Takeaways

• Exposure to and understanding of multiple cultures in childhood can shape a multiracial person's identity.
• The world's perception of a multiracial person may not align with their self-perception, leading to a contrast in identity.
• Starting conversations about race and culture at a young age can help children develop a strong sense of identity.
• Empowering multiracial individuals to assert their identity and supporting them can increase their resilience and confidence. Parents should support their children's exploration of their cultural identities and avoid hiding or downplaying their heritage.
• Culture can have an impact on mental health, particularly when individuals face ongoing rejection, isolation, or bullying due to their cultural background.
• Mixed-race individuals often develop strengths such as cognitive flexibility and acceptance of diverse groups.
• Institutions should update forms to allow individuals to check more than one box for their racial or ethnic identity.
• Appreciating and understanding different cultures can lead to a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

02:20
Cultural Upbringing in the Household

05:36
Awareness of Multiracial Identity

09:16
Identity Development in Teenage Years

11:17
Interest in Psychology and Multiracial Identity

13:06
Focus on Multiracial Identity in Practice

14:06
Working with Multicultural Clients

15:53
Exploring Ethnicity and Identity

16:14
Helping Teens and Children with Identity

22:32
Talking to Children about Race and Culture

23:29
Techniques for Navigating Identity

24:47
Dealing with Microaggressions

27:37
Detriment of Suppressing Identity

28:21
The Detriment of Hiding Cultural Identities

30:04
Navigating Cultural Identity Conflicts

32:10
The Impact of Culture on Mental Health

35:14
Strengths of Mixed-Race Individuals

39:18
Identity and Phenotype

42:10
Embracing Multiple Cultural Identities

44:37
Appreciating and Understanding Different Cultures

4