Life in Spanglish

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Dr. Jeff Gardere, widely known as “America’s Psychologist,” for a conversation that feels like a real-life therapy session. From his roots as the son of Haitian immigrants raised in Brooklyn, New York, to becoming one of the most recognized psychologists in media, Dr. Jeff opens up about his journey, purpose, and impact. We dive into his incredible career spanning decades, from psychology and academia to television, where he’s appeared on major platforms like VH1’s Love & Hip Hop, Real Housewives, Bravo, and more. Dr. Jeff shares how he became a trusted voice in family relationships, mental health, and culture, and how he’s remained relevant since 1987. This episode goes beyond the surface. We talk about mental health in the Black, Latino, and Caribbean communities, breaking generational stigma, healing trauma, and learning how to truly speak our truth. Dr. Jeff also gives real, actionable advice on how to protect your peace, improve your mental health, and navigate today’s world, including the emotional toll of current events impacting our communities. We also get into the effects of social media on self-worth, how families can begin the process of generational healing, and how even a psychologist like Dr. Jeff prioritizes his own mental wellness. This conversation is about truth, healing, and growth. It’s not just an interview, it’s an experience. If you’re Latino, Caribbean, or anyone looking to better understand your mental and emotional health, this is a MUST watch/listen. Tap in now. This one might just change your life. 💙See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We sit down with Brooklyn’s own Edgar Berlanga for one of his most honest and revealing conversations yet. This isn’t just about boxing, this is about the man behind the fighter. Berlanga opens up about growing up in Brooklyn as a proud Puerto Rican, the influence of his family, and the complicated but powerful relationship he has with his father. Despite his father being in and out of prison throughout his life, Berlanga shares how that bond shaped him, and why love and  motivation define their connection today. We also get into his career and what’s next. From his focus on making a major comeback in the ring, to having a deal in place and a fight date on the horizon, Berlanga addresses everything, including the tough loss to Hamzah Sheeraz on July 12 at the Armstrong Theater in Flushing. He speaks candidly about that moment, what he learned from it, and how it’s fueling his next chapter. We also talk potential matchups, including a possible clash with Chris Eubank Jr., and where he stands in today’s evolving boxing landscape, including his thoughts on influencer boxing and names like Jake Paul. Beyond the ring, this episode shows a different side of Berlanga. A father, a son, a provider, someone who gives back to his community and deeply values the people around him. He addresses the biggest misconceptions about him and how his flashy lifestyle and social media presence don’t always reflect who he truly is. And there’s another layer you might not expect, Berlanga talks about his love for music and reveals that he’s been creating music behind the scenes for years. Now, he’s stepping into that space publicly with his upcoming single “Baby Mama”, embracing a new level of vulnerability and creativity. This conversation is about growth, redemption, family, and identity. It’s about seeing the real Edgar Berlanga, not just the headlines, not just the highlight reels, but the human being behind it all.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former CNCO member R!ch Yashel sits down for a personal conversation about his journey from a kid with big dreams to an international Latin pop star. In this episode, Rich opens up about growing up as the child of Dominican immigrants and how his parents made the bold decision to leave New Hampshire for Miami to help him chase his dream of becoming a singer. From early auditions on shows like American Idol and The X Factor to the life changing moment he landed on La Banda, the reality show that created the global Latin pop phenomenon CNCO. Rich shares what it was like to gain millions of fans around the world at a young age, navigate fame, and now step into a brand new chapter of his career. We talk about his latest single, creative freedom, fatherhood, and the lessons he’s learned about the music business after years in the spotlight. He also reflects on a moment when he nearly gave up on music entirely and considered becoming a chef before rediscovering his passion and purpose. This conversation is about growth, truth, resilience, and learning to follow what feels right.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Bushwick, Brooklyn artist Danny Cortes who recreates iconic New York City scenes, from neighborhood ice spots and subway platforms to street signs and corner culture, blending art, hip hop, nostalgia, and community into hyper detailed miniature worlds.  His work has reached global stages, including sales at Sotheby’s for $3,000, $6,000, and even $7,000. But his story is deeper than the art. Divorced, jobless, on probation, and back living with his mother during the pandemic, Danny found himself at rock bottom. It was there, in that small Brooklyn apartment, that he tapped into his true calling, miniature art. With encouragement from his mother and the love of a woman who helped him see his worth, he began rebuilding his life one piece at a time Danny proves that even when you feel like you have nothing left, one small step can change everything. For him, it was one miniature at a time. This conversation is about redemption, culture, Brooklyn resilience, and believing in yourself when no one else does.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Gracias, Come Again, we sit down with actor, comedian, and stand-up comic Jason Andors, a New York City native whose career has spanned decades in the U.S. comedy and acting world, and who is now going viral across the Dominican Republic under his beloved alter ego, El Tiguere Vacano. Jason takes us back to his upbringing in NYC, born to Jewish parents but raised in a city that shaped his deep connection to Black and Latino culture. He opens up about a journey that surprises many, from being a trained ballet dancer, to performing on the Black comedy circuit, to ultimately finding a second home and a second chapter in the Dominican Republic. We go all the way into la cultura. Jason talks about how he fell in love with the DR, how the island embraced him right back, and how he now lives there part-time creating viral content that Dominicans genuinely love. He shares stories of acting alongside legendary Dominican actor Manny Perez, finding real love on the island, his appreciation for Dominican women and Dominican food, and even how he got his two elderly Jewish parents to jump into skits that ended up going viral. The conversation also highlights his nonprofit work and his deep commitment to giving back to the Dominican Republic through building homes, giving away toys, and supporting communities in need. Jason speaks from the heart about why his desire to give back to the island is bigger than words, and how important it is for him to show respect, not exploitation. We talk about the moment he decided to fully lean into becoming “Dominican,” from doing dembow, to immersing himself in neighborhoods that even some locals avoid, all in the name of understanding the culture from the inside out. Jason also shares what it was like being a judge on Dominicana's Got Talent, and how surreal it feels to be embraced everywhere he goes, with fans stopping him for photos and love. This episode is funny, honest, and deeply cultural. It shows how Dominicans and Latinos embrace anyone who truly loves and respects the culture, and how Jason Andors is not playing Dominican culture, he is living in it, celebrating it, and making people laugh along the way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful and wide-ranging episode of Gracias, Come Again, we sit down with DJ Tony Touch, legendary DJ, producer, artist, mixtape pioneer, and one of the most influential cultural figures in Hip-Hop history.  Tony Touch takes us back to his upbringing in Brooklyn, New York, sharing how his Puerto Rican roots and musical household shaped his destiny. Raised in a family of musicians, with a grandfather and father who played music and a mother who sang, Tony explains how music was always in his DNA. We explore Tony Touch’s role as a firsthand witness to the birth of Hip-Hop AND reggaeton and how he has remained present and impactful decade after decade, building a global legacy while staying grounded in community.  Going beyond the music, Tony speaks candidly about his private life, sharing that he is both a father and a grandfather, while explaining why he chooses to keep much of his personal life out of the spotlight. He discusses growing up in a religious home, how faith and God have always guided his journey, and how he attributes his success, longevity, and purpose to his spiritual foundation. The conversation also dives into Boricuas in Hip-Hop, Tony’s groundbreaking ReggaeTony era, and his work with icons like Tego Calderón & Ivy Queen. Tony reflects on being a crucial bridge when reggaeton traveled from Puerto Rico to New York, and how he helped introduce the sound to the Spanglish and Latino communities across the United States.  We also get his thoughts on Bad Bunny’s upcoming Super Bowl performance, his cultural impact, and what his success represents for Latino music on the global stage. Tony closes the episode by sharing his vision for 2026 and graciously accepting his flowers as a true hip-hop legend whose influence continues to shape generations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legendary DJ, Producer and Hip Hop Icon DJ Enuff joins Gracias, Come Again for one of our most powerful, emotional, and joy filled conversations yet. This is an episode where we laugh, cry, reminisce, give flowers, and openly thank the people who supported our careers and personal lives when it mattered most. DJ Enuff takes us back to his upbringing, early life, and school days, including the very first piece of DJ equipment he ever touched. He shares the unforgettable story of how he got his first set of turntables while working at Nathan’s Hot Dogs, literally wearing a hot dog suit, a true New York hustle story. From there, we dive into Latinos in Hip-Hop from day one and how community, culture, and music shaped his journey. We talk about how he became the legendary DJ for The Notorious B.I.G., including never before heard stories about how they met, what Enuff did for Biggie before officially becoming his DJ, and the moment he played a Biggie record on the radio that caused Sean Combs to call him ranting and raving. Despite it all, Enuff went on to tour with Biggie, forming a deep bond and lifelong friendship. The conversation also highlights the founding of the world renowned Heavy Hitters, and the importance of representation, including moments where Enuff shares feeling like he was not Latino enough while being fully immersed in hip hop culture, and how fellow DJs helped keep him connected to Latino music and identity. One of the most moving parts of the episode is our shared discussion about surviving strokes, recovery, and the vital role caregivers played in helping DJ Enuff relearn how to DJ, rebuild his confidence, and reclaim his place as one of New York’s most respected DJ legends. We also talk family. Enuff opens up about his son Riot USA, a successful producer who works with Ice Spice, and how he only realized his son was an artist after attending one of his performances. It’s a full circle moment about legacy, pride, and generational impact. To close it out, DJ Enuff shares what’s next for him in 2026, including launching his own podcast, producing more music, potentially collaborating with his Father & son, and writing his biography, which is already in motion. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, culture, friendship, and hip hop history. A must listen for anyone who loves New York, radio, and the roots of Hip Hop culture. 🎧🔥See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Award-winning writer, director, producer, and actor Elaine Del Valle joins Gracias, Come Again for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about survival, identity, Latino representation, and socially impactful storytelling. Elaine opens up about growing up Puerto Rican in the 1980s in Brownsville, Brooklyn, raised in low income housing while surrounded by addiction, poverty, and a father who struggled with vices. In this interview, we talk about being sent to Puerto Rico as a form of punishment, an experience many Latino children can relate to, and how that summer on the island with her father shaped her identity, worldview, and creative voice. Elaine reflects on how those early life experiences influenced her mission to tell stories rooted in truth and resilience. Elaine discusses becoming a socially conscious storyteller who centers voices and communities that are often ignored in film and television. She weighs in on the ongoing lack of Latino representation on screen and explains how making strong Latina women the leads in her films is her way of pushing back and creating change. Elaine began her acting career in the 1990s, appearing in major projects such as Donnie Brasco, The Sopranos, and lending her voice as Belle the Octopus on Dora the Explorer for over 20 episodes. We also discuss her acclaimed film Princess Cut, now streaming on HBO Max, and the importance of telling authentic Latino stories without compromise. Be sure to stream Elaine Del Valle’s powerful new film Brownsville Bred, available now on Amazon Prime Video. This episode is a must hear for anyone interested in Latino culture, resilience, filmmaking, and stories rooted in truth. Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear Elaine’s story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Step into this powerful, cultural deep dive with Word Life, the Bronx-born Puerto Rican creator behind the viral tagline “Facts is Facts.”  Known for his straight-to-camera truth telling, WordLife has become one of the most trusted voices educating the world on Puerto Rico its history, culture, food, music, politics and the real issues the island faces. Before the viral moments and millions of views, he was a New York rapper grinding in the music scene. Now he’s fully committed to storytelling that uplifts his people. In this episode, we get into his journey before content creation, his transition out of music, and what it means to be a Latino in hip hop. We also unpack the biggest misconceptions about Puerto Rico, highlight the major contributions Boricuas have made across entertainment, and dive into the current events he often breaks down online. One powerful point he breaks down is why Latinos must start buying homes in their ancestral countries, the same way tourists are doing in his native Puerto Rico. And because they both love the sport, they end with a fun segment on Puerto Rican boxing legends Honey names Tito Trinidad, Hector Camacho, Miguel Cotto, Edgar Berlanga & Amanda Serrano and he hits back with the perfect one-word descriptions. This episode is informative, educational, funny, and a full celebration of Puerto Rico and the Bronx.  BX to the island, this one’s for y’all.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Step into this raw and hilarious conversation with Planta Industrial, the Bronx based Dominican duo taking over timelines in a NY minute. They break down how they came together, their mission to go against the current, and how their Bronx and Dominican roots shaped their whole vision. They talk about going "viral overnight" after YEARS of grinding, how their community and the algorithm pushed them to the forefront , not the industry , and how Saso encouraged aka the darknight to step into his own as an artist after seeing his creative brilliance behind the scenes.  The guys also share what’s next for 2026 , from their new distribution deal to striking gold with their first single “That’s My Bitch,” plus whether they ever worry about breaking up and why the industry plant rumors make them laugh. They dive into the rock bands, hip hop, and Dominican artists they grew up on , and how that fusion naturally created their Spanglish lane. And yes, we get into how they manifested a COLORS performance early in the game. Culture, brotherhood, manifestation, and momentum in one episode. Tap in before the world catches up. Their new EP 'Punk Waves Sin Barreras' is out now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're joined by Legendary journalist Darlene Rodriguez, the proud Bronx native and longtime co-anchor of NBC 4’s Today in New York. With 30 years in television and 26 years at NBC, Darlene opens up about her incredible journey from a Bronx girl with a dream to one of New York’s most respected news voices. She shares how her Mami found her first TV job in a newspaper listing for a Bronx station, and how watching the OGs of New York news alongside her mother at just eight years old shaped her path. Darlene reflects on breaking into communities older reporters couldn’t reach, using her Bronx roots as her strength to land a role at NBC right after college. Together, Honey and Darlene dive into the power of community support, what it means to stay grounded when you’re on TV, and how her Abuela’s pride in the Bronx projects kept her connected to her hood. Darlene also gets candid about living up to her mother’s high standards, raising three children of her own, and the lessons she instills in them about kindness and empathy. Plus, she opens up about her husband’s work as an immigration attorney and the challenges of serving families in today’s political climate and how we're all responsible for our doing our part as latinos to support each other. Honored throughout her career for excellence and service, Darlene Rodriguez has earned major recognitions including El Diario’s Mujeres Destacadas Award, Hispanic Magazine’s Latina Excellence Award, and multiple commendations from the NYPD, DEA, and City of New York for her proud representation of the Latino community. 🎧 Stream the full episode on iHeartRadio and watch it on YouTube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dominican lyricist J Noa sits down with Honey German to talk about her incredible journey from growing up in the Dominican Republic to becoming one of the most respected new voices in Latin music. 🇩🇴🎤 J Noa opens up about her childhood back home, her mother’s health struggles, and how those challenges pushed her to help raise her niece at a young age. J Noa talks about never editing her raps after recording, staying authentic, and moving with respect in an industry that often disrespects women. J Noa also shares admiration for Tokischa, calling her smart and multifaceted despite how she’s sometimes perceived. We get into her Grammy nominations and WINS, her collaboration with fellow Dominican artists like Vakero & Yendry and her hope to one day work with fellow spitta Snow Tha Product. She also speaks on how it is living in RD while being a celebrity and lets it be known that if she ever jumps on a dembow record, she’ll be dropping bars and not singing no hook.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.