Very Caliente

By Pablo Alsina, Jenni LopezSociety & Culture Business Entrepreneurship Alternative Health Health & Fitness Personal Journals

Very Caliente episodes

May 19Painting with Paper - Art, Heritage & the Indy 500 with Francis Ruiz
Very Caliente
Hosts: Pablo Alsina & Jennie López
EP 021 - Painting with Paper - Art, Heritage & the Indy 500 with Francis Ruiz
Summary
In this episode of Very Caliente, Pablo and Jennie sit down with artist Francis Ruiz, a Puerto Rico born, Fishers Indiana based painter who left a career in law to pursue art full time during the pandemic. Francis walks through her journey, her unique painting with paper collage technique, and the moment her work was selected to welcome the Indy 500 in downtown Indianapolis. The conversation covers art as healing, the power of perseverance through rejection, honoring her late father through her work, and how every connection in life eventually compounds into the path forward. Raw, warm, and very caliente.
Main Topics
From law to art: leaving an attorney career in Puerto Rico to pursue creative work full time in Indiana

The pandemic pivot: how virtual art classes for family and friends turned into a profession

Painting with paper: Francis's signature collage technique using newspaper clippings, race songs, and patterned paper

Honoring her late father through a red sports car in her Indy 500 painting

The Indy 500 reveal moment: driven into downtown Indianapolis and seeing her work blown up bigger than life

Art as healing and the importance of disconnecting from devices

Latino representation in Indianapolis arts and the Indy Arts Council's push for diversity

The role of mentors, the friend Jane, and never being afraid to ask for help

IU Health Fishers commission: a series of three paintings for the new maternity and OBGYN department

Advice for anyone scared to pivot careers: do not be afraid
Intriguing Quotes
“Any kind of art is essential for the human being.” — Francis Ruiz

“I'm not afraid of asking for help. I'm not afraid of asking for advice.” — Francis Ruiz

“Every little thing you do, every person that you connect with will have an impact on your life.” — Francis Ruiz

“Life is a collage, but you have to put in the work.” — Pablo Alsina

“Not be afraid, three words, not be afraid. Just go for it.” — Francis Ruiz
Key Moments
[00:00:30] - Pablo opens the show and Jennie introduces Francis Ruiz

[00:01:29] - Francis on her journey from Puerto Rico to Indiana and leaving law for art

[00:02:34] - Pablo connects on his own pandemic painting pivot

[00:03:19] - Francis on art as healing and disconnecting from devices

[00:05:09] - Jennie reveals Francis's art was selected for the Indy 500

[00:05:48] - Applying twice and the lesson in keeping at it

[00:07:30] - The red car: honoring her late father who passed in 2015

[00:08:24] - Inside the painting: newspaper clippings, race songs, every driver who's won on the bricks

[00:08:50] - The Indy Arts Council surprise reveal and Francis's raw emotional reaction

[00:10:27] - Pablo on life as a collage: every piece matters but you have to do the work

[00:11:34] - The value of mentors and no gatekeeping in the Indy art scene

[00:12:57] - Why everything has a purpose, from being a lawyer to becoming an artist

[00:15:43] - Francis's exhibitions at the Indianapolis Museum of Art

[00:15:53] - The painting with paper technique explained: jelly plates, patterns, newspaper, collage

[00:18:30] - Puerto Rico in every painting: the Boletín Mercantil from the 1900s in the Indy 500 piece

[00:19:45] - Francis's daughter Anna helping with the flow of the bricks

[00:21:06] - IU Health Fishers commission: three paintings for maternity and OBGYN

[00:22:26] - Where to follow Francis: @FrancisRuizGalarte on Instagram and francisruizarte.com

[00:23:50] - Final advice: do not be afraid
Notable Guests and Resources
Francis Ruiz - Artist, painting with paper collage technique

Instagram: @FrancisRuizGalarte

Website: francisruizarte.com

Featured: Indy 500 official artwork, displayed at the Indianapolis Artsgarden

Recent commission: IU Health Fishers, maternity and OBGYN department

Exhibitions: Indianapolis Museum of Art

Affiliations: Indy Arts Council, Fishers Arts Council

Mentor: Jane, longtime friend and mentor

Influences referenced: Picasso, Matisse, pointillism
Special Announcements
Follow @FrancisRuizGalarte on Instagram to see her Indy 500 reveal video and ongoing work.

Visit francisruizarte.com for her full portfolio and to enquire about commissions.

Share this episode with anyone in the creative community who needs to hear the truth about pivoting careers and trusting the timing.
🎧 Connect with the Hosts
Follow Jennie (@IntentionalUnicorn) and Pablo (@PabloAlsina) on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, bonus wisdom, and pure good vibes.

🛍️ Support the Show
Love what we’re doing? Share the show, leave a review.

🔥 Hashtags to Follow & Share
#VeryCaliente #LatinxPodcast #BilingualPodcast #MindsetShift
#AuthenticityMatters #PositiveEnergy #CourageCultureConversation #PodcastLaunch2026

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
26 min
May 12Hollywood from the Inside Out - Representation, Resilience and Real Talk with Dailyn Rodriguez
Very Caliente
Hosts: Pablo Alsina & Jennie Lopez

EP 020 - Hollywood from the Inside Out - Representation, Resilience and Real Talk with Dailyn Rodriguez

Summary
In this must-watch episode of Very Caliente, Pablo and Jennie sit down with powerhouse showrunner, writer, director, and producer Dailyn Rodriguez, the creative force behind Lincoln Lawyer and Queen of the South. Daughter of Cuban immigrants, raised in New York, and now shaping Hollywood from the inside, Dailyn gets real about Latino representation on screen, the political headwinds facing the industry, and how she fights the stereotype machine one script at a time. It's raw, it's honest, and it's very caliente.

Main Topics
Dailyn's origin story: from Washington Heights to NYU to Hollywood

Growing up with TV as a babysitter and finding herself in Que Pasa USA

Her father's Cuban mafia background and how it shaped her writing voice

How intentional representation works behind the camera on Lincoln Lawyer

The real state of Latino representation in Hollywood right now

Why the industry keeps defaulting to crime, poverty, and border narratives

How she transformed Queen of the South into a Godfather-style family saga

Advice for Latino creatives trying to break through

The power of authentic voice and finding the right allies

Pedro Pascal, Eugenio Derbez, Gina Rodriguez, and who's paving the way

Intriguing Quotes
"It's not about being the loudest voice in the room. It's about being the most authentic." - Dailyn Rodriguez

"We just have to write our way out of it." - Dailyn Rodriguez

"I'm not going to perpetuate the same stereotype. I have to find a way to make it something different." - Dailyn Rodriguez

"LA is almost 50% Latino. It's just easy to populate amongst our people." - Dailyn Rodriguez

Key Moments
[00:01:15] - Pablo introduces Dailyn and the connection between Lincoln Lawyer and Very Caliente's mission

[00:01:47] - Dailyn on intentional representation: all kinds of Latinos, all kinds of stories

[00:03:28] - Origin story: immigrant parents, TV babysitter, Que Pasa USA, and finding herself on screen

[00:05:17] - The Cuban mafia dad, New Jersey private school, and a teacher who changed everything

[00:05:43] - From NYU drama to the writing department and a lifelong love of television

[00:06:13] - Dailyn still thanks that teacher, including at the Norman Lear Award acceptance speech

[00:08:51] - The hard truth: Latino representation is regressing in Hollywood

[00:10:38] - Accent authenticity, casting failures, and why it matters to have a Latino in the room

[00:11:41] - What a showrunner actually does and why that seat of power matters

[00:13:01] - Advice for Latino creatives: be authentic, pound the pavement, find your allies

[00:15:45] - Pablo's 2002 film Estado and the studio that told him to make it about gangsters

[00:15:55] - Dailyn's come to Jesus moment about Hollywood's Latino narrative problem

[00:17:31] - Pablo's two-episode run on Queen of the South and his scene with Alice Braga

[00:18:43] - How Dailyn took over Queen of the South and turned it into the Godfather

[00:20:56] - You just have to write your way out of it

[00:22:08] - Why Dailyn is done with multicam and what she's developing next

[00:22:52] - This or That rapid fire: mornings, writers rooms, and the East Coast hip hop declaration

[00:24:36] - Where to follow Dailyn: Instagram and Threads at @dailynrod

Notable Guests and Resources
Dailyn Rodriguez - Showrunner, writer, director, producer

Instagram and Threads: @dailynrod

Known for: Lincoln Lawyer (Netflix), Queen of the South, Ugly Betty, Bette

Norman Lear Award recipient, Imagen Foundation

Shows referenced: Lincoln Lawyer, Queen of the South, Que Pasa USA, One Day at a Time, This Fool, Ugly Betty

Special Announcements
Watch Lincoln Lawyer on Netflix and see Dailyn's vision for authentic Latino storytelling in action.

Follow @dailynrod on Instagram and Threads for updates on her upcoming projects.

Share this episode with anyone in the Latino creative community who needs to hear the real talk about Hollywood.
🎧 Connect with the Hosts
Follow Jennie (@IntentionalUnicorn) and Pablo (@PabloAlsina) on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, bonus wisdom, and pure good vibes.

🛍️ Support the Show
Love what we’re doing? Share the show, leave a review.

🔥 Hashtags to Follow & Share
#VeryCaliente #LatinxPodcast #BilingualPodcast #MindsetShift
#AuthenticityMatters #PositiveEnergy #CourageCultureConversation #PodcastLaunch2026

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
26 min
May 05Boardroom to Tennis Court – Leadership, Latina Power & Transition with Lizette Ibarra
Very Caliente
Hosts:
Pablo Alsina & Jennie López

Episode Title:
E019 - From the Boardroom to the Tennis Court – Leadership, Latina Power & Life in Transition with Lizette Ibarra

Summary:
In this energetic and inspiring episode of Very Caliente, Pablo and Jennie welcome Lizette Ibarra — founder and CEO of Latina Chief, executive search powerhouse, author, and passionate tennis player. Lizette opens up about building a company at the intersection of Latino culture and corporate leadership, the current state of diversity in business, and the mindset shifts that fuel successful career transitions. From immigrant roots to tennis courts to C-suites, this episode is packed with real talk on ambition, self-awareness, and living life on your own terms.

Main Topics:
The mission behind Latina Chief and why multicultural talent matters

How Latino purchasing power is reshaping corporate strategy

Navigating the DEI landscape as a Latina entrepreneur

Lizette's book Transitions and reframing life's crossroads

Interview advice from thousands of executive conversations

Tennis as a metaphor for leadership, resilience, and joy

The HEPA Way Society: empowering women through sport and passion

Miami as the melting pot of Hispanic culture and business

Intriguing Quotes:

"If you don't have an inclusive strategy in your company, you're leaving money on the table." – Lizette Ibarra

"Transitions are not happening to me — they're happening for me." – Lizette Ibarra

"Self-awareness is such an important life skill. I'm not looking for perfection — I'm looking for that self-awareness." – Lizette Ibarra

"Life is like a movie. You have so many parts you can play — play them all." – Lizette Ibarra

Key Moments:

[00:00:45] – Jennie introduces Lizette Ibarra: CEO, author, tennis player, and powerhouse Latina leader
[00:01:07] – What is Latina Chief? Executive search with a multicultural focus explained
[00:02:16] – Why Lizette founded Latina Chief and the moment equity became her mission
[00:04:11] – Does Latina Chief work with men too? Pablo asks the obvious question
[00:05:19] – DEI under pressure: how Lizette navigates corporate rollbacks and consumer power
[00:07:24] – Why Miami is the perfect home base for a pan-Latino executive search firm
[00:09:51] – Lizette's book Transitions: reframing life's crossroads as happening 'for you, not to you'
[00:13:20] – Where to find the book (Amazon) and the story behind writing it
[00:13:39] – Pablo asks for Lizette's top interview tips from thousands of executive conversations
[00:17:36] – Lizette the tennis player: from dreaming in Mexico to leading state-level teams in Miami
[00:19:55] – The HEPA Way Society: a community for women to find their sport, their passion, their joy
[00:20:47] – Pablo draws the parallel between tennis and life — lose a point, so what?
[00:21:28] – Lizette's closing inspiration: the "damn it" mentality and going after everything
[00:22:24] – Where to find Lizette online + Pablo's mixed doubles invitation

Notable Guests/Resources:

Lizette Ibarra — Founder & CEO of Latina Chief, executive search consultant, author, and tennis advocate
🌐 LinkedIn: Lizette Ibarra / Latina Chief
📸 Instagram: @libarra16
📚 Book: Transitions — available on Amazon

Special Announcements:

📚 Grab Transitions by Lizette Ibarra on Amazon and leave a review if it moves you
🎾 Follow Lizette's HEPA Way Society initiative for women in sport and wellness
🔥 Another powerhouse episode bringing real talk on career, culture, and living fully — only on Very Caliente
🎧 Connect with the Hosts
Follow Jennie (@IntentionalUnicorn) and Pablo (@PabloAlsina) on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, bonus wisdom, and pure good vibes.

🛍️ Support the Show
Love what we’re doing? Share the show, leave a review.

🔥 Hashtags to Follow & Share
#VeryCaliente #LatinxPodcast #BilingualPodcast #MindsetShift
#AuthenticityMatters #PositiveEnergy #CourageCultureConversation #PodcastLaunch2026

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
25 min
April 28From the Hood to the Stage - Faith, Resilience & Purpose with Dr. JayR McIntyre.mp3
Very Caliente

Hosts:
Pablo Alsina & Jennie Lopez

Episode Title:
EP 018 - From the Hood to the Stage - Faith, Resilience & Purpose with Dr. JayR McIntyre

Summary:
In this raw and high-energy episode of Very Caliente, Pablo and Jennie welcome Dr. JayR McIntyre. Army veteran, bestselling author, and Hood Motivator. Born in Long Beach, California, Dr. JayR went from gang violence, losing his mother to AIDS, and 42 days in county jail to three deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, a Bronze Star, and battling PTSD and TBI. After leaving the military he rebuilt himself from bankruptcy through education and faith. In 2025 he ranked as a top 50 motivational speaker in the world. He opens up about mental health, leadership under fire, raising bilingual kids, and the legacy he is building one book at a time. 🔥

Main Topics:
From gang violence and county jail to the US Army and three combat deployments

Mental health, PTSD, TBI, and nearly losing the battle four times

Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico and how eight months in Arecibo sparked his entrepreneurship

The Hood Motivator brand and why street-level representation in education matters

His 10-book series: A Good Heart Don't Pay Bills, The Power of the Pivot, The Janitor, and more

Leadership as service under pressure: lessons from combat applied to everyday life

Why life truly starts at 40 and motivating the over-40 crowd to keep going

Bilingualism, Mexican heritage, and raising culturally grounded kids

Faith, legacy, and the mission to leave this earth on E

Intriguing Quotes:
"I woke up in January 2025 and I was a top 50 motivational speaker in the world." - Dr. JayR McIntyre

"A good heart don't pay bills. You can give and give — and when you need it, nobody shows up." - Dr. JayR McIntyre

"The best leaders perform well under pressure. Our whole life is a battlefield." - Dr. JayR McIntyre

"I want to leave this earth on E. Every last thing out of me." - Dr. JayR McIntyre

"Have faith, be delusional. Faith is the evidence of things not seen." - Dr. JayR McIntyre

"Life for us starts at 40 and 50. We were told we wouldn't make it past 18." - Dr. JayR McIntyre

Key Moments:
[00:00:30] - Pablo and Jennie welcome Dr. JayR McIntyre to Very Caliente

[00:01:26] - Origin story: Long Beach, jail, and enlisting in the Army after 9/11

[00:02:52] - His son following him into the military and the honest speech he gave him

[00:04:43] - Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico, and eight months on the ground in Arecibo

[00:06:21] - The Hood Motivator brand and why representation in education matters

[00:07:05] - Bankruptcy, going back to school for his MBA, and finding his real purpose

[00:08:00] - Ranked top 50 in the world — how speaking life into himself got him there

[00:08:21] - Breakdown of his 10-book series and the stories behind each title

[00:10:43] - How to use your lowest point — jail, bankruptcy, rock bottom — as a launchpad

[00:11:52] - Leadership is service under pressure: what combat taught him about leading people

[00:13:19] - Leaving a legacy like Pac and Biggie — creating enough that it outlives you

[00:13:54] - Why your best chapter starts at 40 and the message to anyone feeling past their prime

[00:15:38] - Dr. JayR's personal algorithm: podcast days, speaking, church, and protecting his energy

[00:16:43] - Raising bilingual kids with Mexican heritage and the power of cultural identity

[00:18:23] - Where to find Dr. JayR's books, podcast, and socials

[00:19:52] - Final message: be delusional, activate your gift, and be okay losing people who don't get it

Notable Guests/Resources:
Dr. JayR McIntyre - Veteran, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker
Instagram: @thehoodmotivator
YouTube: The Hood Motivator
Podcast: The Motivators Table
Books: Search JAYR McIntyre on Amazon — 10 titles available now
Key titles: A Good Heart Don't Pay Bills | The Power of the Pivot | The Janitor | The Three Ps (coming soon)

Special Announcements:
The Three Ps: The Prodigal Bro, The Promiscuous Bro, and The Prolific Bro — coming soon, co-authored with his son

All 10 books available on Amazon under JAYR McIntyre, projected through early 2026

Follow Very Caliente for more conversations with leaders, veterans, and cultural changemakers

🎧 Connect with the Hosts
Follow Jennie (@IntentionalUnicorn) and Pablo (@PabloAlsina) on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, bonus wisdom, and pure good vibes.

🛍️ Support the Show
Love what we’re doing? Share the show, leave a review.

🔥 Hashtags to Follow & Share
#VeryCaliente #LatinxPodcast #BilingualPodcast #MindsetShift
#AuthenticityMatters #PositiveEnergy #CourageCultureConversation #PodcastLaunch2026

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
22 min
April 21Soaring Beyond Limits - Books, Aviation & Legacy with Jacqueline Ruiz
Podcast Title:
Very Caliente

Hosts:
Pablo Alsina & Jennie López

Episode Title:
E017 - Soaring Beyond Limits - Books, Aviation & Legacy with Jacqueline Ruiz

Summary:
In this high-flying episode of Very Caliente, Pablo and Jennie sit down with Jacqueline Ruiz — author of 38 books, speaker, nonprofit founder, and Latina pilot known as Pilotina. Twice a cancer survivor before 24, Jacqueline turned her brush with mortality into rocket fuel for a life of service and legacy. From learning to fly at 31 to documenting 120 Latina aviation stories for permanent museum exhibits, this episode is a masterclass in faith, urgency, and what it really means to manifest your dreams.

Main Topics:
Jacqueline's two cancer diagnoses before 24 and the sense of urgency they ignited

Learning to fly at 31 and the journey from intimidated student to pilot in command

The 120 Latina aviation stories now in permanent museum exhibits across the U.S.

Why less than 1% of pilots are Latina — and what Jacqueline is doing about it

The real formula for manifesting: inspiration, action, and relentless follow-through

Balancing entrepreneurship, motherhood, and a global legacy of service

Her nonprofit mentoring Latina youth ages 12–25 across Latin America and the U.S.

Becoming trilingual at 14 and passing her sommelier Level 1 exam — yes, really

Intriguing Quotes:

"I want to be closer to the skies because if I have a prayer, it'll get there quicker." – Jacqueline Ruiz

"You went from being strapped to a plane to being the pilot in command. Those wings were my wings." – Jacqueline Ruiz

"One single idea can change the paradigm." – Jacqueline Ruiz

"Gratitude is the greatest force to achieve every single one of your dreams." – Jacqueline Ruiz

"It takes the same energy to dream small as to dream big — so dream big and do the work." – Jacqueline Ruiz

"There's power in what we say and what we believe." – Pablo Alsina

Key Moments:

[00:00:45] – Jennie introduces Jacqueline Ruiz: author, speaker, pilot, and publisher
[00:01:28] – How "Pilotina" was born — combining pilot and Latina identity
[00:01:48] – Two cancer diagnoses before 24 and the urgency that changed everything
[00:03:00] – Taking her first discovery flight at 31 and going from terrified to pilot in command
[00:03:53] – Why Latina representation in aviation matters more than ever
[00:04:30] – One idea, 120 stories: creating the only Latina aviation collection in history
[00:04:53] – Two permanent museum exhibits for Latina aviators — a first in 100+ years
[00:06:13] – The raw numbers: less than 1% of pilots are Latina
[00:07:30] – The planes she's flown: Remos, Cessnas, Piper Arrows and more
[00:09:09] – Jennie asks about the cancer journey that launched it all
[00:10:00] – Waking up from surgery with a tube in her liver — and thinking about finals
[00:12:13] – 38 books, a nonprofit, millions in impact — all fueled by a sense of urgency
[00:13:04] – Pablo on the power of positivity vs. just happiness
[00:15:44] – Renewing her contract with God daily through acts of kindness
[00:16:30] – Jennie reveals Jacqueline is her book publisher
[00:17:06] – Defining success as the intersection of profit and impact
[00:18:03] – Her nonprofit: mentoring 12–25-year-old Latinas across five countries
[00:19:14] – Pablo on manifesting + work: you can't just wish on a star
[00:19:53] – Passing her sommelier Level 1 exam — and learning English from shampoo bottles
[00:21:48] – Jennie's closing call to action: rewatch this one and take notes
[00:22:11] – Find Jacqueline at @PilotinaOfficial on Instagram

Notable Guests/Resources:

Jacqueline Ruiz — Author of 38 books, international speaker, nonprofit founder, and Latina pilot
📸 Instagram: @PilotinaOfficial
✈️ Creator of the only Latina aviation story collection in history (120 stories)
🏛️ Permanent exhibits at museums in Maryland and Kansas
📚 Publisher and founder of Fig Factor Media
🌎 Nonprofit mentoring Latina youth in Belize, Panama, Medellín, Mexico, Colombia & the U.S.
🏆 Grant recipient from the Obama Foundation

Special Announcements:

✈️ Follow @PilotinaOfficial to catch Jacqueline's adventures in the air and around the world.
📚 Dreaming of writing your own book? Reach out to Jacqueline's publishing company.
🎧 Connect with the Hosts
Follow Jennie (@IntentionalUnicorn) and Pablo (@PabloAlsina) on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, bonus wisdom, and pure good vibes.

🛍️ Support the Show
Love what we’re doing? Share the show, leave a review.

🔥 Hashtags to Follow & Share
#VeryCaliente #LatinxPodcast #BilingualPodcast #MindsetShift
#AuthenticityMatters #PositiveEnergy #CourageCultureConversation #PodcastLaunch2026

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
24 min
April 14After 30 & Unapologetic - Music, Authenticity & Life Without a Filter with Raquel Sofía
Podcast Title: Very Caliente

Hosts: Pablo Alsina & Jennie López

Episode Title:
E016 - After 30 & Unapologetic - Music, Authenticity & Life Without a Filter with Raquel Sofía

Summary:
In this bilingual and soul-stirring episode of Very Caliente, Pablo and Jennie welcome Puerto Rican singer-songwriter Raquel Sofía — a Grammy and Latin Grammy-nominated artist who has shared stages with Juanes and Shakira. Raquel opens up about her journey from writing dramatic love poems at age seven in Mayagüez to becoming one of the most authentic voices in Latin music today. She talks about her album Después de los Treinta, the art of writing from personal truth, navigating the music industry's "no" culture, and why she stopped outsourcing her opinions. Plus, she closes the episode with a live performance of her fan-favorite "Tenemos Historia." This one hits different. 🔥

Main Topics:
Growing up in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico and how it shaped her artistry

Writing from personal truth — and why honesty is her superpower

Her album Después de los Treinta and owning life after 30

AI in music: why she sees it as a tool, not a threat

Stopping the outsourcing of opinions and protecting her authenticity

The music industry's rejection culture — and how to keep going

Independent music, social media, and the democratisation of art

Live performance: "Tenemos Historia"

Intriguing Quotes:
"The artist's vocation is like a necessity — I never had that doubt about what I wanted to be." – Raquel Sofía
"When I'm honest, people connect even more — because at the end of the day, we all have very similar feelings." – Raquel Sofía
"I stopped outsourcing opinions. In almost everything." – Raquel Sofía
"You have to cry it all out and then move on. Everyone is told no." – Raquel Sofía

Key Moments:
[00:00:31] – Pablo and Jennie welcome Raquel Sofía to Very Caliente
[00:01:30] – Raquel on writing poems at seven and the pull toward music from childhood
[00:02:14] – Puerto Rican pride: music everywhere, always, and being from Mayagüez
[00:03:53] – Jennie's fan moment — connecting with Raquel through "Tenemos Historia"
[00:04:25] – How Raquel writes: untying emotional knots and the story behind "Tenemos Historia"
[00:05:30] – Pablo on AI vs. real human artistry — and Raquel's nuanced take
[00:06:17] – AI as a tool, not a replacement: Raquel's honest and grounded perspective
[00:08:56] – Protecting authenticity after 30: stopping social media trend-chasing
[00:09:26] – Why she stopped outsourcing opinions — from outfits to Grammy red carpets
[00:11:48] – The album Después de los Treinta: making content for her generation
[00:12:02] – Record labels vs. independence: the beauty of uploading music today
[00:15:22] – Handling rejection: confirmed for tours and duets — then dropped
[00:16:56] – Jennie asks: how do you keep going after the no? Raquel's real answer
[00:17:34] – Raquel closes with a live performance of "Tenemos Historia" 🎤🔥

Notable Guests/Resources:
Raquel Sofía – Singer-songwriter, Grammy & Latin Grammy-nominated artist from Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
📱 Instagram/TikTok: @RaquelSofía | YouTube: @RaquelSofiamusica
🎵 Music on all platforms: Spotify, Apple Music, and more
🎙️ Podcast: After 30 (available now — more episodes coming)

Special Announcements:
🎤 Raquel's album Después de los Treinta is out now — made for everyone who's living their best life after 30
🎙️ Check out her new podcast After 30 — real conversations for real women.
🎧 Connect with the Hosts
Follow Jennie (@IntentionalUnicorn) and Pablo (@PabloAlsina) on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, bonus wisdom, and pure good vibes.

🛍️ Support the Show
Love what we’re doing? Share the show, leave a review.

🔥 Hashtags to Follow & Share
#VeryCaliente #LatinxPodcast #BilingualPodcast #MindsetShift
#AuthenticityMatters #PositiveEnergy #CourageCultureConversation #PodcastLaunch2026

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
21 min
April 07Breaking Into the Frame - Latino Storytelling & Brownsville with Elaine Del Valle
Podcast Title:
Very Caliente
Hosts:
Pablo Alsina & Jennie López
Episode Title:
E015 - Breaking Into the Frame - Oscar Eligibility, Latino Storytelling & the Power of Brownsville with Elaine Del Valle
Summary:
In this inspiring episode of Very Caliente, Pablo and Jennie welcome Elaine Del Valle—actor, writer, director, producer, and casting director—to talk about her groundbreaking film Brownsville Bread. Elaine is the only Latina among more than 200 US directors with a film eligible for Oscar consideration. She opens up about growing up in Brownsville, Brooklyn, the power of owning your story, the pay gap facing Latina directors, and what it takes to change the narrative for Latinos both in front of and behind the camera.
Main Topics:
Brownsville Bread and how it earned Oscar eligibility through theatrical release

Being the only Latina US director with an Oscar-eligible film—and why that must change

How writing gave Elaine creative control and industry credibility

Latino representation: from stereotypes to authentic storytelling

The accent debate and what forced accents cost Latino actors

Latinos make up less than 4% of directors and 7% of writers

The pay gap: offered far less than male Latino directors for the same work

Breakout stars Summer Rose Castillo and Natalia Lara

The roadmap for aspiring Latino filmmakers: web series → short films → features

Sundance 2026: Elaine’s documentary Daydream
Intriguing Quotes:
“We have to be in the conversation. If we allow people to keep us out of it, we will never be in it.” – Elaine Del Valle
“Through my writing, I learned I had a lot more control than when I was just acting.” – Elaine Del Valle
“I’m from New York. We don’t keep secrets.” – Elaine Del Valle
“I know for sure how much value I add.” – Elaine Del Valle
“You have to be able to see it to believe it.” – Elaine Del Valle
“Don’t attempt to do a big film right away. Practice it through short films.” – Elaine Del Valle
Key Moments:
[00:00:15] – Pablo introduces Elaine: multi-hyphenate storyteller and Oscar-eligible director
[00:01:28] – What Oscar eligibility actually requires and how Brownsville Bread qualified
[00:02:30] – Jennie asks about the evolution of Latino representation on screen
[00:02:59] – Elaine’s early career: locked out of film/TV roles, only booked commercials
[00:03:28] – Why she started writing: to tell her truth and gain creative control
[00:05:30] – The Spike Lee comparison and what Brownsville Bread really shows
[00:06:30] – Meet the young stars: Summer Rose Castillo and Natalia Lara
[00:08:10] – Jennie asks how Elaine is changing the narrative one role at a time
[00:08:59] – The stats: Latinos are less than 4% of directors and 7% of writers
[00:09:45] – Same 4% pattern holds in corporate executive leadership too
[00:10:33] – Pablo on being asked to fake an accent he doesn’t have
[00:11:52] – Elaine on authentic accents vs. phony portrayals on major platforms
[00:13:38] – How Elaine protects her integrity and self-worth in a tough industry
[00:14:56] – The pay gap: offered dramatically less than a male Latino director for the same job
[00:17:17] – Where to watch Brownsville Bread: Apple TV and Prime Video
[00:17:41] – Advice for aspiring filmmakers: short films, festivals, the ecosystem
[00:20:21] – Sundance 2026: Daydream premieres January 29th—streamable from home
Notable Guests/Resources:
Elaine Del Valle – Actor, writer, director, producer & CSA casting director
🎬 Brownsville Bread – Apple TV and Prime Video now
📸 Instagram: @BrownsvilleBread | @ElainedelValleDirector
🎬 Daydream – Sundance Film Festival, January 29th (also streamable online)
✍️ Substack: festival ecosystem and filmmaking career advice
🏆 Summer Rose Castillo – Young Elaine; Emmy-nominated for Alma’s Wake
🏆 Natalia Lara – Teenage Elaine; Venezuelan actress based in Georgia
Special Announcements:
🎬 Watch Brownsville Bread now on Apple TV or Prime Video.
🏙️ Stream Daydream from January 29th at Sundance or online.
🎧 Connect with the Hosts
Follow Jennie (@IntentionalUnicorn) and Pablo (@PabloAlsina) on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, bonus wisdom, and pure good vibes.

🛍️ Support the Show
Love what we’re doing? Share the show, leave a review.

🔥 Hashtags to Follow & Share
#VeryCaliente #LatinxPodcast #BilingualPodcast #MindsetShift
#AuthenticityMatters #PositiveEnergy #CourageCultureConversation #PodcastLaunch2026

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
23 min
March 31 Latino, Hispanic or American - Identity, Culture & Unity
Podcast Title:
Very Caliente
Hosts:
Pablo Alsina & Jennie López
Episode Title:
E014 - Latino, Hispanic or American - Identity, Culture & Unity

Summary:
In this heartfelt and energetic episode of Very Caliente, Pablo and Jennie dive into a powerful conversation about Latino identity, culture, and the stereotypes that still divide communities today. Sharing personal stories from Argentina, Puerto Rico, and the United States, they explore what it truly means to be Hispanic, Latino, and American. From language and heritage to racism, misconceptions, and cultural pride, this episode is a reminder that diversity within the Latino community is something to celebrate—not simplify.

Main Topics:
• The difference between Latino, Hispanic, and cultural identity
• Growing up between cultures in the United States
• Puerto Rico’s unique relationship with the U.S.
• The power of bilingualism and embracing accents
• How stereotypes still affect the Latino community
• Why representation and storytelling matter
• Raising multicultural children in today’s world
• Celebrating diversity across Latino cultures

Intriguing Quotes:
“Latinos are not one thing. We’re everything.” – Pablo Alsina
“Your accent is not a weakness—it’s a superpower.” – Jennie López
“If we build walls between cultures, we miss the beauty of learning from each other.” – Jennie López
“We all come from the same human source. Unity matters.” – Pablo Alsina

Key Moments:
[00:00:03] – Welcome to Very Caliente and the purpose behind the podcast
[00:02:00] – The difference between “Latino” and “Hispanic” identity
[00:04:15] – Pablo’s upbringing in Miami and the diversity of Latino cultures
[00:06:00] – Jennie’s story: Puerto Rico, the U.S. Air Force, and moving to the mainland
[00:08:45] – Puerto Rico’s citizenship confusion and Jennie’s traffic stop story
[00:11:00] – Raising multicultural children and embracing identity
[00:13:00] – Breaking stereotypes about Latino careers and education
[00:16:00] – Cultural diversity within Latino music, food, and traditions
[00:19:00] – The importance of asking questions instead of judging
[00:21:30] – Final message: unity, pride, and embracing culture

Notable Guests/Resources:
• Pablo Alsina – Broadcaster, storyteller, and podcast host
• Jennie López – Speaker, entrepreneur, and co-host of Very Caliente
🎧 Connect with the Hosts
Follow Jennie (@IntentionalUnicorn) and Pablo (@PabloAlsina) on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, bonus wisdom, and pure good vibes.

🛍️ Support the Show
Love what we’re doing? Share the show, leave a review.

🔥 Hashtags to Follow & Share
#VeryCaliente #LatinxPodcast #BilingualPodcast #MindsetShift
#AuthenticityMatters #PositiveEnergy #CourageCultureConversation #PodcastLaunch2026

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
25 min
March 24Leadership Without a Mask - Resilience, Truth & Latino Leadership with Enrique Acosta
Podcast Title:
Very Caliente
Hosts:
Pablo Alsina & Jennie López
Episode Title:
E013 - Leadership Without a Mask - Resilience, Truth & Latino Leadership with Enrique Acosta
Summary:
In this powerful leadership-focused episode of Very Caliente, Pablo and Jennie sit down with leadership expert, military veteran, and motivational speaker Enrique Acosta. With 26 years of military service and extensive leadership consulting experience, Enrique dives into what true leadership really means—and why too many leaders hide behind titles instead of leading authentically. From corporate culture and global leadership lessons to Latino representation and the power of self-awareness, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and purpose-driven leadership.
Main Topics:
Why leadership starts within—not with a title

Lessons corporate America can learn from military leadership

The difference between authority and true leadership

How internal conflict destroys teams and organizations

Why many leaders are “living lies” behind success and status

The power of authenticity, resilience, and self-awareness

Latino leadership, representation, and empowering women leaders

Turning adversity into opportunity during moments like the pandemic
Intriguing Quotes:
“Leadership is not about position. Leadership is influence.” – Enrique Acosta
“Most leaders are living lies behind the performance of leadership.” – Enrique Acosta
“It’s you versus you. That’s the only competition that matters.” – Enrique Acosta
“Lead where you are. Influence what you can.” – Enrique Acosta
Key Moments:
[00:00:30] – Pablo and Jennie introduce leadership expert Enrique Acosta
[00:02:00] – Enrique’s 26-year military career and transition into leadership consulting
[00:04:00] – What corporate America can learn from military leadership culture
[00:06:30] – Why internal conflict destroys teams faster than external competition
[00:07:30] – The difference between authority and leadership influence
[00:10:00] – Launching the Developing the Leader Within podcast during the pandemic
[00:12:30] – Latino leadership around the world and empowering women leaders
[00:15:00] – The truth about leaders living behind masks of success
[00:17:30] – Enrique’s bestselling book A Lion’s Pride: The Scars That Silenced Kings
[00:19:30] – The importance of bilingual pride in the Latino community
[00:21:30] – Final advice: “It’s you versus you.”
Notable Guests/Resources:
Enrique Acosta – Leadership consultant, speaker, and veteran

Podcast: Developing the Leader Within (300+ episodes on global leadership)

Book: A Lion’s Pride: The Scars That Silenced Kings

Upcoming book: Latinos 100 (featuring Latino leaders across industries)

Connect with Enrique on LinkedIn or on YouTube at DTLW Podcast
Special Announcements:
🎙 Enrique’s podcast Developing the Leader Within features leadership voices from around the world.
📚 His book A Lion’s Pride explores authenticity, truth, and confronting the masks leaders wear.
🔥 Follow Very Caliente for more conversations with inspiring leaders, creators, and cultural changemakers.
🎧 Connect with the Hosts
Follow Jennie (@IntentionalUnicorn) and Pablo (@PabloAlsina) on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, bonus wisdom, and pure good vibes.

🛍️ Support the Show
Love what we’re doing? Share the show, leave a review.

🔥 Hashtags to Follow & Share
#VeryCaliente #LatinxPodcast #BilingualPodcast #MindsetShift
#AuthenticityMatters #PositiveEnergy #CourageCultureConversation #PodcastLaunch2026

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
24 min
March 17Justice, Faith & Fighting Back - Personal Injury Law with Mauro Fiore
Podcast Title:
Very Caliente
Hosts:
Pablo Alsina & Jennie López
Episode Title:
E012 - Justice, Faith & Fighting Back - Personal Injury Law with Mauro Fiore
Summary:
In this powerful and practical episode, Pablo and Jennie sit down with top California personal injury attorney Mauro Fiore to break down what really happens after an accident—and what insurance companies don’t want you to know. From faith and family to fighting billion-dollar insurance corporations, Mauro shares the legal steps everyone should take after a crash, the biggest mistakes people make, and how undocumented immigrants still have rights. It’s real talk, real strategy, and real protection for our community.
Main Topics:
Mauro’s 25+ year journey in personal injury law

Why insurance companies are not on your side

“No fee unless we win” – how contingency law really works

The most common mistakes people make after an accident

Step-by-step guide on what to do immediately after a crash

Legal rights for undocumented immigrants in California

Balancing high-stakes cases with faith, family, and fatherhood
Intriguing Quotes:
“Insurance companies are not there to help you. Their job is to pay you as little as possible.” – Mauro Fiore
“If you’re injured, don’t talk to the insurance company—call a lawyer.” – Mauro Fiore
“Citizens and non-citizens have the same rights when it comes to injury claims.” – Mauro Fiore
“I see the worst of what can happen every day. That’s why I fight hard for every client.” – Mauro Fiore
Key Moments:
[00:01:00] – Meet Mauro Fiore: 25+ years fighting insurance companies
[00:03:00] – From single life in Hollywood to fatherhood and faith
[00:06:00] – Why he specializes exclusively in plaintiff personal injury
[00:08:30] – What “no fees unless we win” actually means
[00:10:00] – The biggest mistake people make after an accident
[00:12:30] – Step-by-step: what to do immediately after a crash
[00:15:30] – How to choose the right lawyer and avoid red flags
[00:18:00] – Legal rights for undocumented immigrants in California
[00:20:30] – Handling trauma, wrongful death, and emotional cases
[00:23:30] – The $4 million case that changed a young girl’s life
[00:26:00] – Where to find Mauro and how to contact his firm
Notable Guests/Resources:
Mauro Fiore – Founder of Fiore Legal
🌐 Website: www.FioreLegal.com
📞 1-800-440-4157
📞 En Español: 1-800-GANE-HOY | www.GaneHoy.com
📱 Instagram: @FioreLegal
🎙️ Podcast: Bourbon of Proof
Special Announcements:
⚖️ If you or someone you know has been injured, know your rights before speaking to insurance companies.
📣 Share this episode with your family—especially those who may not know their legal protections.
🔥 Another powerful episode bringing knowledge, protection, and empowerment to our community.
We’ll see you on the next episode of Very Caliente.
🎧 Connect with the Hosts
Follow Jennie (@IntentionalUnicorn) and Pablo (@PabloAlsina) on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, bonus wisdom, and pure good vibes.

🛍️ Support the Show
Love what we’re doing? Share the show, leave a review.

🔥 Hashtags to Follow & Share
#VeryCaliente #LatinxPodcast #BilingualPodcast #MindsetShift
#AuthenticityMatters #PositiveEnergy #CourageCultureConversation #PodcastLaunch2026

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
30 min

About Very Caliente

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Welcome to Very Caliente—the podcast that turns up the heat on culture, connection, and real conversation. Hosted by the always insightful Pablo Alsina and the ever-radiant Jenni López, this bilingual duo brings you a refreshing blend of brains and boldness with every episode.

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