Failure Is Data: Lessons from a First-Gen Journey with Daniel Ordoñez

About this episode

Odalys Jasmine interviews Daniel Ordóñez about his journey as a first-generation Afro-Latino entrepreneur and the lessons learned from failure.

In this episode of Hella Latin@, Odalys Jasmine sits down with Daniel Ordóñez — a Haitian-Salvadorean entrepreneur and creative director — for a deeply reflective conversation on legacy, identity, masculinity, and purpose. As a first-generation LA native, Daniel's passion for creativity and making an impact led him to Saints – a unique concept store redefining the barbershop and boutique experience, cultivating a space where he can empower his community through style, self-care, grooming, and unique experiences. In this episode, he shares his family’s immigration story from El Salvador and Haiti, to growing up in Pico Union, to being bused into affluent West LA schools, and to building his legacy. Together, they explore what it means to live in the in-between as a first-generation Afro-Latino, how love at home builds unshakable confidence, and why failure is simply data on the path forward. From being kicked out of school to finding discipline and building a business rooted in purpose rather than assimilation — this episode is all about becoming who our ancestors prayed for. Keep up with Hella Latin@ episodes, events and experiences at www.odalysjasmine.com. Learn more about your…

People in this episode

Host: Odalys Jasmine

Guest: Daniel Ordóñez

Topics covered

• first-generation experience
• identity
• legacy
• masculinity
• entrepreneurship
• community empowerment

Keywords

• first-generation
• Afro-Latino
• entrepreneur
• identity
• legacy
• community
• failure
• self-care
• grooming

Mentioned in this episode

Places: El Salvador, Haiti, Pico Union, West LA

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