Ocu-Pasión

Send us a textCapítulo 76: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we are joined by Vince Ibarra Jr., aka Vinnie Mack, a DJ, Podcaster, and Producer based out of Los Angeles, CA.Vinnie has a unique musical taste, spanning both English and Spanish genres, epitomizing the vibrant culture of Los Angeles. Beyond his skills on the turntables, Vinnie is also a versatile digital content creator, known for his expertise in camera work and video editing. He is both the talent and producer for his podcast, Pa L...

Send us a textCapítulo 75: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, Singer/Songwriter Yancy Abril shares her story of taking risks, embracing her cultural heritage, and pursuing her passion for music. Join us as we dive deep into her life, from performing at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall to becoming a Top 8 contestant on The Voice Dominicana. This episode is full of laughter, inspiration, and powerful insights from a rising star in the music world. Tune in to hear how Yancy Abril is...

Send us a textCapítulo 74: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we speak with artist, performer, and influencer, Demetre Durham. Listen in as Demetre shares insights into his passion for drawing and how it shaped his creative path. We discuss the significant role dance played in his life and career, as well as the inspiration behind his cartoon project, Titan Up.Demetre's journey has been one of continuous evolution and artistic exploration. His passion for drawing since childhood laid the foundati...

Send us a textCapítulo 73: In this special episode of Ocu-Pasión podcast, we bring you an insightful interview with the incomparable Natalia Lafourcade, a luminary in the Latin music scene whose artistry has captivated hearts worldwide. Originally aired on Tamarindo podcast, alongside Brenda Gonzalez, this episode delves into Natalia's profound journey in crafting her latest album, "De Todas las Flores" (Of All the Flowers).Natalia Lafourcade needs little introduction, but for those unfamilia...

Send us a textCapítulo 72: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we had the pleasure of hosting Jocelyn Ramirez, a true powerhouse in the world of plant-based cuisine and a fervent advocate for healthy food access. Jocelyn's journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her roots and the fusion of cultural flavors with plant-based nutrition. As a plant-based chef, published cookbook author, and New York Times recipe contributor, she has left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape.At th...

Send us a textCapítulo 71: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, I had the pleasure of hosting Jackelin Treviño, whose life journey is a testament to the power of art and social justice. Raised in the vibrant U.S./Mexico borderlands, Jackelin's upbringing served as the catalyst for her unwavering commitment to both the arts and social impact. Jackelin's repertoire includes being a dancer, activist, herbalist, yoga instructor, and theater maker. She is the driving force behind Pluma Blanca Commu...

Send us a textCapítulo 70: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, I had the pleasure of hosting Maria Paz and Gary Galapagos from Mariposas Galacticas, a band that defies musical boundaries with their unique blend of Cumbia-Klezmer & Punk. Formed in the spring of 2023 in West Philly, the band's fusion of Andean-American and Latinx Punk elements serves as the cornerstone of their distinct sound. Mariposas Galacticas is not your typical band; they boast an ensemble of 10-12 musicians and incor...

Send us a textCapítulo 69: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we are thrilled to welcome the Founder & Executive Director of Pulso, Liz Rebecca Alarcón. Pulso is a groundbreaking non-profit media start-up dedicated to sharing news, history, and culture stories by Latinos, for Latinos, with a mission to keep the pulse on nuestra gente. Liz Alarcón is not just a visionary entrepreneur but also a dynamic speaker and astute political analyst. Through Pulso, she has been making waves by reach...

Send us a textCapítulo 68:In this episode of the Ocu-Pasión podcast, we welcome Editor-in-Chief at Cardenal Revista Literaria, David Espino Lozada. David Espino Lozada's literary journey is a testament to his deep passion for books and print media. Throughout the episode, he shares his mission of creating opportunities for emerging voices in the literary world, all while aspiring to embody the spirit of the contemporary zeitgeist.As we delve into the world of Cardenal Literary Magazine, you'l...

Send us a textCapítulo 67:In this episode of the Ocu-Pasión podcast, we have the privilege of interviewing a truly enchanting guest, Natalie Garcia, known as La Brujita Del Jardin. She is a multi-talented Chicana Poet, Author, Songwriter, Spoken-Word Artist, and Actress, whose work revolves around the themes of healing, self-love, and spiritual manifestation.Natalie's unique approach involves harnessing the transformative power of words and affirmations to provide mental and emotional stabili...

Send us a textCapítulo 66: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Arthur Bryan Marroquin, the creative force behind ABM Photography. Arthur's journey into the world of photography is nothing short of fascinating, as it began with him in front of the camera as a model and actor at Missy's Modeling Studio in the picturesque Rio Grande Valley, deep in the heart of Texas.During his time in front of the camera, Arthur discovered a deep passion for the artistry beh...

Send us a textCapítulo 65: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we have the privilege of connecting with Alejandra Estefanía, a prominent Visual Artist born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, and currently based in Miami, FL. In this installment, Alejandra Estefanía introduces her thrilling new endeavor, "The American Passport," which aims to honor our familial roots, embrace our lively culture, and ignite rejuvenation within our community by means of the captivating craft of storytelling. Additionally, ...

Send us a textCapítulo 64: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we delve into the artistic journey of Sirak, a Mexican artist with a career spanning more than two decades. From the world of underground comics and fanzines to teaching art, Sirak's creative evolution is nothing short of inspiring. Originally a charismatic art teacher, they discovered their true calling in cartoons and comics, eventually becoming a digital artist. Situated in the vibrant cultural hub of Tijuana, Mexico, Sirak draws en...

Send us a textCapítulo 63: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we are delighted to welcome our exceptional guest, Brenda Gonzalez, the Co-CEO of Tamarindo podcast. Tamarindo is a lighthearted yet profoundly impactful show hosted by Brenda Gonzalez and Ana Sheila Victorino. Together, they navigate the intricate landscapes of politics, culture, and self-development, amplifying crucial issues and voices that inspire action.In this episode, we delve into the captivating origin story of Tamarindo and i...

Send us a textCaptítulo 062: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we delve into the world of art, culture, and creative critique with the renowned artist, curator, and educator, Ed Gómez Hailing from a background rich in artistic exploration and academic achievement, Ed Gómez takes us on a journey through his interdisciplinary art practice that challenges conventional exhibition norms, questions institutional frameworks, and reimagines historical models of artistic creation.At the core of Ed ...

Send us a textCapítulo 061: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we welcome Chicago based Photographer, podcaster and speaker, Karina Mora. Join us as we discuss Karina's personal journey of reconnecting with her culture through travel photography and how she embarked on a transformative quest to reeducate herself about the history of Mexico, meticulously documenting each step along the way. Through her lens, she discovered a newfound appreciation for the small but profound elemen...

Send us a textCapítulo 060: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we have the pleasure of diving into the extraordinary artistic journey of Wenceslao Quiroz, a Los Angeles-based multidisciplinary artist and educator. Join us as we unravel the captivating story behind Wenceslao Quiroz's artistic journey. Gain insight into his creative process, the profound impact of his work on the community, and the unique perspective he brings to cultural narratives. Discover the fusion of personal experience...

Send us a textCapítulo 059: In this episode, we have the honor of hosting the incredibly talented poet, Marisa Tirado. With roots spanning Puerto Rico, Mexico, and New Mexico, Marisa's work explores the complex intersection of America's growing fascination with Latinx culture and her personal assimilation experience.Marisa's remarkable poetry collection, "Selena Didn't Know Spanish Either," has garnered recognition as the winner of the prestigious 2021 Robert Phillips Chapbook Prize. Th...

Send us a textCapítulo 058: In this episode, we have the privilege of interviewing Melissa Gallardo, the inspiring founder of Bonita Fierce Candles. Bonita Fierce Candles is a brand dedicated to crafting premium home fragrance inspired by Latin heritage, providing a sense of familiarity, home, and belonging.Latin culture has long been underrepresented in the home fragrance industry, lacking scents and fragrances that accurately reflect their culture. Bonita Fierce Candles aims to change that ...

Send us a textCapítulo 057: Join us for an inspiring episode of "Ocu-Pasión" as we interview actor, director, and writer Demetri Tostado. Demetri shares his incredible journey in the world of theater, including his experience of feeling safe on stage for the first time and the transformative power of art that impacts the world.Hailing from southern California, Demetri's passion for acting began in childhood, playing the game of "pretend." He went on to study Theatrical arts for Acting and Pla...

Send us a textCapítulo 056:In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we are honored to host Denise Soler Cox,award-winning filmmaker, international speaker, podcaster and author. Denise shares her personal journey of self-discovery and how she became passionate about sharing Enye (ñ) stories.Growing up in Westchester County, NY in the 80s as one of the few Latinas in her neighborhood and schools, Denise struggled with reconciling her Puerto Rican and American identities. It wasn't until she moved to Mia...

Send us a textCapítulo 055: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we sit down with Rafael Fernandez Jr., a Puerto Rican/Dominican Digital Creator, Host of the Latin Babbler Show, and the Founder of Wafi Media. Rafael shares his journey as a digital creator and how he founded Wafi Media, a full-service digital media company that showcases the Latino community through entertainment news, representation, and discussions. From the challenges of starting a business to the importance of diversity in media...

Send us a textCapítulo 054: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by visual artist and aztec dancer, Heriberto Luna. Listen in as we discuss how he developed his skills as an earth sculptor and painter and drawing inspiration from the universality of ancient knowledge & the mysteries of the universe. Born in Mexico City in 1976, he immigrated to the United States a year after. Of 6 children, he is the second to the youngest. Heriberto Luna comes from a colorful background...

Send us a textCapítulo 053: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Model, Stylist, and founder of "Mujeres of all Shades" , Franchela Ulises. Listen in as we discuss expressing her identity, challenging notions of what it means to be Latina, and creating a place where women of all shades can champion their own style. Franchela Ulises is a model, fashion stylist, and social media influencer whose mission is to empower Afro-Latinas and unite women of all skin colo...

Send us a textCapítulo 052: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by multi talented award-winning multilingual American actress, Cosima Cabrera. Listen in as we discuss drawing the actors' own experiences of life, connecting with characters authentically, and staying motivated through uncertainty. An award-winning multilingual American actress, Cosima is known for her strong emotional range and ability to make vulnerable characters come to life. Born and raised in Los Angeles...

Send us a textCapítulo 051: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by multi talented graphic designer and visual artist, Chris Tobar Rodriguez . Listen in as we discuss designing with color in mind, working on vast design projects, and the journey that led him to the art world. Chris ‘Tobar’ Rodriguez is a multi-talented multimedia artist and designer based in Austin, Texas. His striking digital illustrations are full of layered colors, patterns, and textures that draw the vie...

Send us a textCapítulo 050: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Writer/Director/ Producer and Performer, Josefina Lopez. Listen in as we discuss the journey of co-authoring the award winning film Real Women Have Curves, her experience as the founding Artistic Director of CASA 0101 Theater in Boyle Heights, and the world premier of "Remembering Boyle Heights"Josefina López (Writer/Director/ Producer/Performer) is best known for authoring the play and co-authoring the 2002 SUND...

Send us a textCapítulo 049: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Los Angeles-based Actor, Yumarie Morales. Listen in as we discuss representation in the industry, the process of learning from rejection, and the importance of having a strong willingness to persevere.Yumarie Morales, of Panamanian and Puerto Rican parentage, has always found herself at the intersection of American culture and traditional Latin American values. Being an "Army brat" afforded her the opportunity to...

Send us a textCapítulo 048: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Philadelphia-based Founder of Softwax Record Pressing, Federico R. Casanova. Listen in as we discuss the process of building a record pressing plant, meeting the needs of independent record labels, and how music fits into the landscape of the first-generation experience. Ever since his move to Philadelphia 10 years ago, Mr. Casanova has been curating artist all across America and even overseas, bringing them...

Send us a textCapítulo 047: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Philadelphia-based Chef and owner of Juana Tamale, Jennifer Zavala . Listen in as we discuss connecting to identity through cooking, her experience as a contestant on Top Chef, and the journey to opening Juana Tamale. Jennifer Zavala is a Chef and the owner of Juana Tamale restaurant in South Philadephia. Chef Jennifer Zavala is an industry veteran, having spent 14 of her 27-year career. A self-taught chef, ...

Send us a textCapítulo 046: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Chief Engagement and Inclusion Officer of Ballet Hispánico, Tamia B. Santana . Listen in as we discuss creating new avenues of engagement with dance, promoting collaboration and engagement within diverse communities, and fostering a love of the arts for all. Tamia B. Santana is an advocate for dance and the arts. Previously she was Executive Director of the Brooklyn Dance Festival, owner of Jete Dance ...

Send us a textCapítulo 045: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer ​Chris Urquiaga​, known as JChris. Listen in as we discuss his performance experiences, different art styles to his music, and his support for the LGBTQ+ community along with his own drag persona, Cara Linda. Singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer ​Chris Urquiaga​, known as JChris, is lauded for his exciting performance energy and smooth voice. Hailed as “…the nex...

Send us a textCapítulo 044: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by interdisciplinary artist, activist, and curator, Savanah Pennell. Listen in as we discuss the intersection of Art & Activism, storytelling as a tool for creating change, and exploring new ways of communicating through Art. Savanah Pennell (b. 1995, Honolulu, HI) is an artist, curator, activist, and scholar. Pennell was raised in Mesa, Arizona, and finds a deep connection to her ancestors who inhabited th...

Send us a textCapítulo 043: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Journalists, Entrepreneurs, and founder of LATINAFest, Bel Hernandez and Naibe Reynoso. Listen in as we discuss the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in the Latin community, the mission of LATINAFest 2022, and the impact media coverage can have on latin-owned businesses. Naibe Reynoso is a Mexican-American Multi-Emmy award-winning journalist based in Los Angeles California. She is also a speaker and author. Sh...

Send us a textCapítulo 041: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by doctoral fellow and program assistant Chell Parkins. Listen in as we discuss the experiences of Latin youth engaged in culturally relevant dance-making practices, her contribution to the nation's only doctoral program focused on educational research in dance, and her journey back to Puerto Rico.Chell Parkins is a Doctoral Fellow and Program Assistant in the Dance Education Program at Teachers College, where her r...

Send us a textCapítulo 040: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by electronic music producer/composer, DJ, theatrical actor, and an award-winning clown/mime, Marvin Quijada (a.k.a. Silent Marvin). Listen in as we discuss immersive plays and interactive theater experiences, the beauty of silent story telling, and creating Teatro Vista's new moving graphic novel, Detective Q. Marvin Quijada (a.k.a. Silent Marvin) is an electronic music producer/composer, DJ, theatrical actor, and ...

Send us a textCapítulo 039: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by actress and writer, Kenia Munguia. Listen in as we discuss making a character your own, expressing difficult emotions, and pursuing your passion early in life. Kenia Munguia is a Honduran Nicaraguan actress and writer who started her career in Los Angeles. A year ago, she moved to New York City to push her artistic boundaries and expand her professional horizons. She considers herself fortunate that she has ...

Send us a textCapítulo 038: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by collage artist and Art Engineer, Luis Martin. Listen in as we discuss the unapologetically exploring his role as an artist, Collage as a democratic art practice, developing your own authentic visual language.Born in Los Angeles, and based in New York city, Luis Martin began his journey in the art museums of LA where he worked as a teen. Moving to NYC at the age of 19, he continued to work at cultural institutions...

Send us a textCapítulo 037: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Director of Ballet Hispánico’s School of Dance and co-founder of the Latinx Dance Educators Alliance, Michelle Manzanales. Listen in as we discuss the connecting culture to formal dance, Tejano influences, her commitment to creating an environment where all students are inspired to explore movement.Michelle Manzanales is a choreographer, dedicated dance educator of 30 years, and co-founder of the Latinx Dance Educators...

Send us a textCapítulo 036: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Founder of Utopia Moss, Pamela Prat. Listen in as we discuss the process of using Sea Moss in creative ways that promote wellness and offers priceless insights and inspiration from her entrepreneurial journey."Utopia Moss is your one stop shop for all your sea moss needs. At Utopia Moss we strive to make the best natural and organic sea moss products available. We specialize in flavored sea moss gel's, sea moss soap's ...

Send us a textCapítulo 035: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Brazilian illustrator, tattoo artist, designer and photographer, Francisco Martins, aka Cuckoo Martins. Listen in as we discuss the art, application, and practice of creating meaningful photos, the relationship between Brazil and its identity as a Latin American country, and the mission of "Poca Madre Studio". "Francisco Martins, aka Cuckoo Martins is an brazilian illustrator, tattoo artist, designer and photograp...

Send us a textCapítulo 034: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by writer, actor, singer and producer, Sandra Delgado. Listen in as we discuss reimagining Latin history on stage and creating the Sandra Delgado Experience: "A big band music spectacular with a lil bit of dancing, a lil bit of storytelling and a whole lot of joy."Sandra Delgado is a Colombian-American writer, actor, singer and producer born and raised in Chicago. She is best known for her play La Havana Madrid, whi...

Send us a textCapítulo 033: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Award Winning Actress, Playwright and Producer, Jessica Carmona. Listen in as we discuss telling culturally empowering stories, her strong connection to social justice and faith, and the power of the Arts to inspire and ignite social change.Jessica is an Award Winning Actress, Playwright and Producer of Afro- Puerto Rican descent. She is a graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts where she received her B.F.A in Actin...

Send us a textCapítulo 032: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Professional dancer, choreographer, teacher and writer Marcela Gómez Lugo. Listen in as we discuss the Cuban ballet method, creating culturally relevant pieces, and reimagining the future of ballet classics. Marcela Gómez Lugo, dancer, teacher, writer, and translator, was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She began her pre-professional training as a ballet dancer at the age of fourteen at Andanza School of Dance. Mar...

Send us a textCapítulo 031: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Professional singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer Carolina Rial from "The Voice" Season 20. Listen in as we discuss her deep passion and love for music, being a self-taught singer, and building a musical career from the ground up. Carolina Rial is an 18-year-old singer, songwriter, musician, actress, dancer and model based in New Jersey. Carolina rose to national attention this past year as a co...

Send us a textCapítulo 030: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Poet Adrian Ernesto Cepeda. Listen in as we discuss the collective experience of grief, discovering the importance of one's voice, and healing through the writing process. Adrian Ernesto is the author of Flashes & Verses… Becoming Attractions from Unsolicited Press, Between the Spine from Picture Show Press, Speaking con su Sombra with Alegría Publishing and La Belle Ajar & We Are the Ones Possessed from C...

Send us a textCapítulo 029: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Teatro Vista's Co-Artistic Directors Wendy Mateo and Lorena Diaz. Listen in as we discuss pushing the boundaries of digital theatre, creating a safe space for artists to explore, and a sisterhood that has lasted over two decades. Teatro Vista, Theatre With A View is firmly committed to sharing and celebrating the riches of Latino culture with all Chicago theatre audiences. This commitment stems from the beli...

Send us a textCapítulo 028: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Vocalist, Guitarist, and Songwriter Heidy Flores from the band Los Hollywood. Listen in as we discuss the songwriting process, exploring new genres, and sharing the stage with legends like Aterciopelados, La Ley, and Enanitos Verdes.Los Hollywood is a Rock Pop band from California that formed in 2008. Current members include Heidy Flores (Vocalist/Guitarist/Songwriter), Gustavo Mojica (Drummer/Songwriter) a...

Send us a textCapítulo 027: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by multidisciplinary artist, host of "Sobre Mesa" and co-founder of "Mi Latinidad", Alix Rhode. Listen in as we discuss navigating the theatre landscape, creating creative community, and launching a multimedia company that produces theatre, showcases, digital media, and other works by Latinx artists. Alix Rhode (She/Her) is a Chicago-based actor, singer, dancer, poet, and photographer. She graduated with a BFA...

Send us a textCapítulo 026: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Singer, Actor, and Songwriter Gerard Flores. Listen in as we discuss developing music with a message, forging bonds with audiences, and the role of the Artist in the modern world. "The role of the artist is to create balance in the world by offering more beauty"*New single “Vente Ya” out April 8thGerard Flores is a bilingual singer and actor from Buenos Aires, Argentina currently living and working in Los Angeles...

Send us a textCapítulo 025: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Master Brewer Kassy and Jess Fierro, Colorado's first Female and Latina Owner/Head Brewer and winner of Season 1 BEERLAND on VICE presents Atrevida Beer Co. Listen in as we discuss operating a female forward brewery, winning a national homebrew competition called BEERLAND ,and producing unique flavors that challenge traditional notions of craft beer.While stationed in Germany, US Army veteran Rich Fierro an...

Send us a textCapítulo 024: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Dancer, choreographer, and instructor and Founder of 3-19 Dance Art, Beatriz Eugenia Vasquez. Listen in as we discuss the beauty of dance, the mission of 3-19 Dance Art company, and forging a new path for inclusivity in Ballet. Born in Bogota Colombia (South America), Beatriz studied with Internationally world known teachers and at The Joffrey Ballet School in NY. She has danced with Ballet 2000, The Bilingual Foundati...

Send us a textCapítulo 023: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by writer, creative and social justice scholar Laura Tejeda. Listen in as we discuss exploring the dynamic Los Angeles street vending community, honoring your history & roots, creating "Hungry in East Los", and writing/hosting for L.A TACO.Laura Tejeda is a lifelong East LA resident. She has a Masters Degree in Higher Education and works with college students particularly in Equity & Social Justice based edu...

Send us a textCapítulo 022: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by writer, director, editor, and graphic designer Chris Banda. Listen in as we discuss the process of character building, sharing authentic stories, and healing through writing. Raised in West Covina, California. Chris was always interested in art and enrolled at Mt. Sierra college to become a graphic designer. Though his abilities in graphic design, he created several layout and film posters. https://bandabear71.wix...

Send us a textCapítulo 021: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Dancer and Performance Artist Salomé Egas. Listen in as we discuss exploring intersectional identities, action driven artwork, and venturing beyond the traditional theatre landscape to engage with audiences head on. SALOMÉ EGAS is an Ecuadorian mestiza performer, educator and entrepreneur who is permanently questioning her identity through dance, theater, film and textile arts. As a solo performer and a memb...

Send us a textCapítulo 020: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Author of "Jefa-in-Training" and Founder of Womxn Crush Music Ashley K. Stoyanov Ojeda. Listen in as we discuss building community for rising women & non-binary songwriters, coaching creative entrepreneurs on how to grow their businesses, and writing the first Spanglish project-launching toolkit for the new generation of boss women.Ashley K. Stoyanov Ojeda is a community-builder, business-development strategist, co...

Send us a textCapítulo 019: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Artist, Musician, Activist, and Founder of The Pharmacy, Gary "Galapagos" Viteri. Listen in as we discuss the process of building a collaborative community space, creating inspired art, and supporting the local music scene for generations to come. GARY “GALAPAGOS” VITERIAndean-American Artist & Activist Based in Philadelphia. Since the New Millennium, Touring the Globe On Stage & Off Playing His Guitar, The Fir...

Send us a textCapítulo 018: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Broadway veteran, university instructor, theatre facilitator, and director Michelle Rios. Listen in as we discuss Theatre within social activism, collective creation, and the art of storytelling. Michelle's credits include the Tony Award nominated Broadway productions of Paul Simon and Derek Walcott's The Capeman, The Sound of Music (starringRichard Chamberlain), and Man of La Mancha (starring Tony Award win...

Send us a textCapítulo 017: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Singer and Actor Adassa. Adassa most recently performed the principal role of Dolores Madrigal in Disney's Encanto and is featured on Billboard's chart-topping song "We Don't Talk About Bruno." Listen in as we discuss the importance of representation in film, the magic of live performance, and taking on the role of a lifetime. From animation to arena performances at Madison Square Garden, Adassa ...

Send us a textCapítulo 016: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by acclaimed visual Artist Gerardo Castro. Listen in as we discuss artistic truth, inspired introspection, and joining the creative charge for LGBTQ+ rights and BIPOC visibility. "I was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, grew up in the New York metropolitan area. I obtained my MFA from Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, NY in 1997. My work has been exhibited, in museums and galleries, nationally and internationally, including...

Send us a textCapítulo 015: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by polyglot and language tutor Sandra Zeller, founder of La Peruanita Tutoring. Listen in as we discuss innovative immersive language learning, promoting Peruvian culture, and launching an online Spanish tutoring service. "I'm a multilingual Peruvian mom of two living in Schertz, Texas. I have traveled to four continents and lived in three countries (Peru, Belgium, and USA).This has taught me the value of language im...

Send us a textCapítulo 014: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by accomplished singer, actress, and stunt performer, Nohely Quiroz. Listen in as we discuss the world of stunt performing, first-generation arts participation, and overcoming setbacks with grace. Nohely Quiroz is a First Generation Mexican-American singer, actress, stunt performer, writer, producer, and proud latina from a Rarámuri father and Sinaloa mother. She has performed across California theaters such as The Chance...

Send us a textCapítulo 013: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Rafael Menendez, founder of Maltas Con Leche. Listen in as we discuss family unity through the engagement with the arts, mural making, and raising creative children."Maltas Con Leche is a family of artist established since 2012. Maltas consists of nine members and growing. As a family we have participated in workshops teaching art, demonstrations at events and taken on small and large murals .. We have painted murals i...

Send us a textCapítulo 012: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Madelyn Dorta, writer, producer, and founder of Wrightwood studios. Listen in as we discuss creating authentic, diverse, and epic works of fiction! "Allow yourself to be vulnerable enough to find creative joy""At the age of six, I got superpowers. That’s what I thought at the time. I had the ability to pick up a #2 Ticonderoga pencil and create worlds. I could create great kingdoms, giant monsters, and bada...

Send us a textCapítulo 011: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Dionis Ortiz, a New York-based a multimedia artist, community art producer, and educator. Listen in as we discuss process-oriented creation, fatherhood, and transforming everyday items into complex, layered compositions. "My work comes from the truth to show people of all shades of black, from all corners of the world, their beauty by reflecting back their own images and environments."Dionis Ortiz is a...

Send us a textCapítulo 010: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by artist and coffee roaster, Esperanza Salgado, founder of Brewja Co. Listen in as we discuss building creative spaces, developing a line of coffee and tea, and finding wonder in the things that make us ‘weird’."I desire to cultivate a life of healing. My purpose and mission is to decolonize the arts through community healing and building. In my work, my subjects are usually focused on unearthly and powerful feminine ene...

Send us a textCapítulo 009: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Chef Keith, also known as "The Friendly Neighborhood Chef". Listen in as we discuss creative cooking, navigating the New York food scene, and breaking traditional food barriers.As a native New Yorker, Keith’s flair for cooking in fast paced kitchens and his mouth-watering dishes are inspired by one of the largest melting pots in the world. Having the opportunity to being exposed to various cuisines, Keith understands h...

Send us a text(Updated Edit) Capítulo 008: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Ashley Nell Tipton, Fashion Designer and Winner of Project Runway Season 14. Listen in as we discuss fashion, creativity, her collection at New York’s Full Figured Fashion Week, and the importance of prioritizing mental health. Ashley’s passion for fashion started at a very young age where she learned to sew on her grandmother’s sewing machine when she was just seven years old, and only continued to...

Send us a textCapítulo 007: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by ZZ, an Artist, Horticulturalist, and overall free spirit! Listen in as we discuss gardening, wellness, and maintaining connection to her Dominican roots through communing with nature. ZZ describes herself as a proud Afro-Latina and horticulturist as well as a multidisciplinary Queer Creative whose passion for Nature is deeply rooted. “Whether I am gardening, tending to my plants, capturing views through the l...

Send us a textCapítulo 006: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Haywood Cepeda, a Bronx-based Comic Book enthusiast, community builder, and founder of No Masss Comics. Listen in as we discuss all things comics including New York Comic Con. Haywood is the founder of No Masss Comics, a New York City based online Comic Book Retailer specializing in rare and exclusive comics whose philosophy is centered on the idea that comics can help build strong communities.Follow No Masss Comi...

Send us a textCapítulo 005: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Angela Ramos, a Colombian-Caribbean multi-disciplinary artist that strives to produce thought-provoking work that challenges the status quo in order to open avenues of expression to those whom history has silenced. Listen in as we discuss acting, songwriting, performance writing, and theatre-making with a focus on social activism.Angela has performed and debuted her creative writing and music Off-Broadway and Off-...

Send us a textCapítulo 004: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Luis J. Rodriguez, LA-based poet, novelist, journalist, critic, and columnist who served as the 2014 Los Angeles Poet Laureate. Listen in as we have a soulful discussion on writing, gang life in early years, and his cultural contributions to the world.Luis J. Rodriguez has been a champion for the arts since he escaped gang life and drug addiction in his teens by painting murals, social justice activism, and writing. He...

Send us a textCapítulo 003: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Jessie Diaz-Herrera, a Bronx-based body positive dancer, health & wellness influencer, fitness enthusiast and overall badass! Listen in as we discuss dance, wellness, body liberation, and methods of keeping the Curves With Moves community alive during the Covid Pandemic. Jessie is the founder of Curves With Moves, a Hip-hop dance collective with a mission to empower their students to learn how to love their bo...

Send us a textCapítulo 002: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Kareem Tabsch, a Miami-based award-winning documentary filmmaker most recently known for for co-directing the Netflix documentary, Mucho Mucho Amor-The Legend of Walter Mercado, a moving tribute to the world famous Astrologer and cultural icon. Take a heartwarming dive into the glamorous life and times of iconic people documented in Kareem’s documentaries including The Last Resort, capturing the colorful lives of Jewis...

Send us a textCapitúlo 1: TrailerOn a dark and stormy night in New York City, Ocu-Pasión comes to life! Through this thoughtful introduction, Delsy opens the door to heartfelt conversations on culture and creativity. Ocu-Pasión Podcast is a heartfelt interview series showcasing the experiences of artists and visionaries within the Latin American/ Latinx community hosted by Delsy Sandoval. Join us as we celebrate culture & creativity through thoughtful dialogue where guests from...