Wine & Chisme

Wines We're Drinking 2021 Ortega Family Wines Carneros Pinot Blanc, Napa Valley. 100% Pinot Blanc sourced from the Carneros appellation. Tasting notes: stone fruit, lemongrass, and a bright tart lime finish. A food-friendly white with great acidity that shines on a hot day, especially alongside spicy food or cheese. Available at OrtegaWines.com. Listener discount available through April 30th. Mention Wine and Chisme when you order. Episode Description: Six years in the making, mi gente, and this one was worth every single second of the wait. Jessica sits down with Jesus Ortega Jr., owner and winemaker of Ortega Family Wines, for a conversation that is equal parts history, heart, and honesty. Born and raised in the vineyards of Yountville, Napa Valley, Jesus is the son of immigrants who came to California through the Bracero program in 1964. His family has worked the land for three generations. Now, Jesus is doing something none of them did before him: he owns the brand. In this episode, Jessica sips on the 2021 Carneros Pinot Blanc while Jesus shares the full journey, from a kid who didn't want to pick up pruned canes in the rain, to a self-taught winemaker who runs his own label out of the very vineyards where he grew up. He talks about the winemaker who took a chance on him, the harvest party that changed everything, surviving COVID as a brand-new label, and why his philosophy is simply: farmer first, winemaker second. They also get into the current state of wine consumption among younger generations, what makes small producers different from mass producers, the comeback of Merlot (gracias a Dios), California Malbec vs. Argentinian Malbec, and a little wine magic trick involving your dominant nostril that you will absolutely use at your next dinner party. And yes, there is a discount situation. You have to listen for it. In This Episode: 0:00 Intro + Opening Toast: 2021 Carneros Pinot Blanc 3:30 Reading Jesus's Bio + The Bracero Program 6:00 Growing Up in the Vineyards of Yountville 9:30 The Barbecue That Started It All (and the oaky Sauvignon Blanc) 12:00 Getting Sent Home for Chewing Gum 14:30 From Tasting Room to Vineyard Manager 17:00 Jessica's Origin Story: Strawberry Hill at a Quinceanera 20:00 "We Not Only Work the Land, We Own the Brand" 22:00 Wine as a Story in a Bottle 25:00 Launching the Latiné Wine Brand Directory 30:00 Deciding to Start Ortega Family Wines in 2020 33:00 Getting COVID as a Brand-New Winemaker 38:00 How His Sense of Smell Came Back Stronger 41:00 Farmer First, Winemaker Second 44:00 The Accidental Syrah-Malbec Blend 46:00 From Harvest to Bottle: The Winemaking Process Explained 50:00 Current Lineup: Pinot Blanc, Cabs, Malbec, and More 53:00 Starting Wine: Pinot Noir and Why Merlot Is Making a Comeback 58:00 The Sideways Effect on Merlot 1:00:00 The Younger Generation and Wine Consumption 1:03:00 Why Small Producers Are Different 1:06:00 The Dominant Nostril Wine Trick 1:10:00 What's Coming Next from Ortega Family Wines (a 2022 Malbec!) 1:14:00 Listener Discount + How to Order Connect with Ortega Family Wines: Website: OrtegaWines.com Instagram: @ortega_family_wines Wine Club, Private Tastings, and Winemaker Dinners available via the website Connect with Wine and Chisme: Latiné Wine Brand Directory: thewineandchismepodcast.com Instagram | TikTok | Threads | YouTube: @wineandchisme

What We're Drinking: Jessica: Rúakh Wines out of Paso Robles, specifically the "Somos Cafe de Olla" red blend (56% Syrah, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petite Verdot). Owned by Sam Esquivel, a San Diego native whose interview episode drops the first Wednesday of May. Jessica Yañez and her partner in crime Erika Sanchez are back with a full glass of wine and a whole month's worth of chisme to spill. From heartbreaking headlines hitting close to home, to Hollywood takeovers, to what happened at the Oscars, to the state of your wallet right now, the March Chisme episode covers the news, the nostalgia, and the nunca-ending commentary that lives rent-free in our heads. Erika came prepared. Jessica came with feelings. Together, they gave you everything. This one hit differently. Jessica and Erika unpack the New York Times five-year investigation revealing sexual abuse allegations against Cesar Chavez, including a statement from civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, who says she was assaulted by him and that he fathered two of her children. The conversation goes deeper into the systemic silence women are expected to maintain "for the greater good," the question of how to separate a man from a movement, and why being down for a cause should never mean putting all your faith in one person. Jessica and Erika watched it so you'd know what to expect, and they had very strong reactions. This Louis Theroux documentary on Netflix explores online influencers redefining masculinity and their influence on young men. Erika wanted to turn it off. Jessica wanted to send the link to every young man she loves. Michael B. Jordan won Best Actor for Sinners and the crowd's reaction said everything. Jessica and Erika talk about what makes him so different from the rest, including the detail work he put into playing three distinct characters, and the fact that after the ceremony he went to In-N-Out. Alone. Without an entourage. Taking pictures with fans. If you've been confused about who owns what in Hollywood right now, Jessica breaks it all the way down. From Viacom to Paramount to CBS, from Discovery tanking HBO Max to the Ellison family (Oracle money, Trump ties) acquiring Paramount through Skydance, and now going after Warner Brothers and CNN, the consolidation of media power is moving fast. The implications for diverse voices, independent journalism, and your streaming bill are real. They also talk about the Murdoch family documentary, why Succession was more literal than anyone realized, and how the media we consume is being shaped by a handful of very wealthy, very politically connected people. Week three of the conflict. The Strait of Hormuz is blocked, cargo ships can't move gas, and Jessica paid $65.50 to fill her tank at Costco. Erika called her mom crying. They talk about how presidents don't typically drive gas prices, but intentionally starting a war and bombing oil fields is a different story. And if you think groceries are expensive now, they say: just wait. Transportation costs go up, everything goes up. The math is not mathing. A viral video of a voter admitting she's voted for Trump three times and calling herself an idiot sparked a whole conversation about what it means to not care until something affects you personally. Jessica has Trump-supporting cousins she loves, and she is absolutely worried about what happens if they get pulled over by ICE. She is not holding back on this one. Jessica has been watching it. Erika has not (yet). They talk about the Kennedy mystique, why the Camelot era still holds such power, what it must have felt like for Carolyn Bessette to go from private person to one of the most famous women in the world overnight, and how the 90s paparazzi era made that kind of life nearly impossible. Also: Ryan Murphy said something messy to Jack Schlossberg (JFK's nephew, now running for a House seat in New York), and the girls are not impressed. The good news we needed. Gap's recent ad revival started as a quiet response to the Sidney Sweeney moment and has grown into something genuinely culturally relevant. The Young Miko campaign. The 90s nostalgia. The khaki swing ad. The Madonna x Missy Elliott "All About the Jeans" era. Jessica and Erika reminisced, agreed that Gap is doing something right, and acknowledged they are no longer the target demographic, but they felt it anyway. A month of a lot. Heavy and real and also sometimes really, really funny. That's the March Chisme energy. Thank you for being here for all of it.

What Jessica Is Sipping Casa Martinez Wines Bonitas 2023 Chenin Blanc. Light, crisp, a little grassy, with apple in the back. Jessica's words: "That's really good." High praise, coming from her. Casa Martinez is out of the Napa area, founded by Daniel Martinez, whose Pinot Noir called Camila donates proceeds to care for his daughter. Episode Description Ven siéntate, porque this one is going to stay with you. This week, Jessica sits down with award-winning activist filmmaker, top 100 podcaster, sought-after international speaker, and now author Denise Soler Cox for a conversation that had Jessica reaching for tissues before they even got into the chisme. And honestly? Same. Denise is the creative force behind the documentary Being Enye and the upcoming book What Will They Say? (Simon & Schuster, August 18th), and she joins Wine & Chisme to talk about the secrets we carry, the taboos baked into our cultura, and why so many Latinas feel both seen and shackled by the very values that raised us. This is not just an interview. It's a mirror. In This Episode Jessica and Denise get into the real stuff, including how a night at a bar in Miami in the 90s planted the seed for a documentary that would go on to reach listeners in 32 countries. Denise shares the three-part storytelling framework from Harvard professor Marshall Ganz, the one that helped her understand why Being Enyé resonated so far beyond what she ever expected, and how it laid the foundation for the book she has been building for years. They talk about the moment at age 9 that Denise carried silently for decades, the power of finally putting it on the page, and why she believes telling that story was the only way to truly reclaim it. Denise also opens up about losing over $200,000 in speaking revenue when DEI cuts swept through corporate America, and why that painful chapter made the book more honest than she ever thought she could be. Jessica brings her whole self to this one too. She shares her own experience navigating second-gen identity, the guilt of not carrying the same burdens as her first-gen friends, and the realization, mid-read of Denise's first chapter, that Wine & Chisme itself might be rooted in something far deeper than she had ever let herself acknowledge. They also dig into why Latinas are leaving corporate America faster than any other group, what the physics concept of thermal equilibrium has to do with the secrets we keep, and how a preemptive offer from Simon & Schuster on Valentine's Day two years ago became the moment Denise finally stopped settling. About Denise Soler Cox After going from stay-at-home mom to award-winning activist filmmaker, Denise Soler Cox has spent over a decade on a mission to transform how we think and speak about culture, identity, and belonging. Her documentary Being Enyé has been screened internationally and led her to 400+ stages, including two TEDx talks. She has partnered with brands like Ralph Lauren, Amazon, Progressive, and Microsoft, and has been featured on NBC Nightly News, CNN, PBS, Forbes, Telemundo, and more. Her debut book What Will They Say? is published by Simon & Schuster under the Primeros Sueños Press imprint and releases August 18th, just ahead of Hispanic Heritage Month. Resources + Links Pre-order What Will They Say? wherever books are sold Add the book on https://www.goodreads.com/https://www.goodreads.com/ and click "Want to Read" Join Denise's book launch team: email Denise directly to get access to a digital galley ahead of release at Denise@denisesolercox.com Follow Denise on social media @denisesolercox on all platforms Connect with Denise about speaking at your ERG, conference, or event

What Jessica's Drinking 🍾 Casa Martinez Wine, Bonitas 2023 Chenin Blanc. A Latiné-owned family brand out of the Napa-Sonoma area, where Daniel Martinez not only runs his own label but stewards vines for other brands. A perfect sip for a conversation this rich. What happens when the woman who has helped others build empires finally lets her own walls come down? In this deeply honest episode of Wine & Chisme, Jessica sits down with her amiga and one of her favorite humans on the planet , Vanessa Santos, entrepreneur, board-level strategist, Forbes Most Impactful Woman of Latin America honoree, and the woman behind Letters from the InBetween. Vanessa grew up as the eldest daughter of immigrants in Washington Heights and the Bronx - navigating survival, community, corporate rooms she wasn't supposed to be in, and a love for storytelling she didn't even realize she had until she got there. She worked her way from retail to the C-suite without an Ivy League degree, scaled ventures to multi-millions in revenue, became a millionaire before 30... and then watched it all come apart. In this episode, she shares what it really looked like: a divorce, a business exit, losing her home, and sitting with 7-8 months of Airbnbs and friends' couches. And why she's more herself now than she's ever been. This one is for every woman who has ever performed strength while quietly drowning, and who is ready to hear that the shedding season was always preparing you for what's next. "Everything is happening for me, not to me. This is just a chapter of my book." In This Episode, We Talk About: Growing up first-gen in New York City and what the hood actually teaches you How Vanessa bluffed and asked her way from retail floors to C-suites The real cost of performing success — big wedding, reckless spending, and an abandonment wound dressed up as generosity Going from millionaire to unhoused — and what that stripped away (and revealed) High-functioning depression, PTSD, and what it means to finally receive help Colorism in Latinidad and a grandmother's lesson about using privilege as a door you hold open Why lack of expression equals depression What self-reclamation actually looks like when you're in the middle of it Letters from the InBetween, The Table, and Glow Up Hour — what Vanessa is building now Her message for any woman stuck in the research phase: it's time to push Guest Resources & Links Newsletter (Letters from the InBetween): vsantos.co/newsletter Glow Up Hour (free monthly community) Instagram: @vanessasantosleon

What does a chancla have to do with wine? Everything, it turns out. In this episode, Jessica sits down with Raquel Gomez, co-owner of La Chancla Wines - a Latina-founded, Texas-based wine brand rooted in culture, community, and a whole lot of corazón. Just three years ago, Raquel had never tasted straight wine. Today, she's got bottles in AT&T Stadium suites, a partnership with Ready Vineyards, and a growing line of blends designed specifically for palates shaped by tamales, pozole, and abuela's guisos. Raquel's story is one of trust, hustle, and saying yes when opportunity knocks...even when you don't feel ready. From helping manage a household to leading the sales team that landed a spot at Central Market's 30th anniversary dinner, her journey is proof that you don't need to be a sommelier to change the wine industry. You just need to believe in the product, show up for your community, and know that the name La Chancla will stop people in their tracks. In This Episode We Cover: How Raquel went from never drinking wine to co-owning a wine brand in just 3 years The kitchen-table moment when the name "La Chancla" was born Why the bottle features a fox holding flowers instead of an actual chancla Designing a wine for Latiné palates — fruit-forward, semi-sweet, and sangria-adjacent The food pairings that work: tamales, pozole, guisos, birria tacos & lengua How La Chancla landed in the suites at AT&T Stadium (Cowboys Stadium) Being a Latina woman breaking into a male-dominated wine sales world in Texas Upcoming expansion: a white blend ("Blanco") and new red varietals Why clean wines mean waking up ready to work the next morning The power of immigrant work ethic and what it means to build something for your comunidad Guest Info: Raquel Gomez — Co-Owner, La Chancla Wines Based in Dallas, TX | Originally from Monclova, Coahuila, México Website: lachanclawine.com Discount Code: chisme1on1 for Wine & Chisme listeners Ships nationwide across the USA

Wines we're sipping on: Jessica is sipping on a Cramoisi Vineyards Pinot Noir (Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon), and Erika's is sipping on Butter- a buttery Chardonnay to survive the East Coast snowstorm. We're back with our February Chisme episode- and we had a LOT to unpack! This month, Jessica is joined by her ride-or-die Erika Sánchez of Brave Communications for an unfiltered conversation covering everything from ICE raids and political resistance to the BAFTAs racial slur incident, Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show, the America's Next Top Model Netflix documentary, celebrity tributes, and everything in between. Oh, did I mention we're celebrating SIX YEARS of Wine & Chisme! 🥂 Topics Covered 6-Year Anniversary of Wine & Chisme: Episode 277 and nearly 250 guests deep! ICE raids in Minnesota: deaths, protests, community fear, and the Liam Ramos story Media crackdowns: Stephen Colbert, CBS layoffs, and the erosion of press freedom The Grammys: Bad Bunny's historic first Spanish-language Album of the Year win, the In Memoriam segment, and the Addison Rae conversation Romeo Santos & Prince Royce: their tone-deaf NYT interview on ICE and the fallout Nicki Minaj's Trump Gold Card moment and the price of political alignment The Super Bowl 'Benito Bowl' with Ricky Martin, bachata, Lady Gaga's Dominican designer dress, and Bad Bunny's powerful message Celebrity tributes: Catherine O'Hara, James Van Der Beek, Eric Dane, Jesse Jackson, and Willie Colón America's Next Top Model Netflix doc: Tyra's missing apology, the Shandy situation, and industry accountability The BAFTA racial slur incident: Tourette's, BBC's delayed reaction, and the half-hearted apology The 2026 Winter Olympics: rooting for athletes vs. rooting for a country Oscars preview, Timothée Chalamet, and the Kardashian fatigue Equality vs. equity in U.S. Olympic funding Upcoming: La Chancla Wines on next week's episode!  Community Call-In Line Want to share your chisme, suggest a guest, or leave a comment? Call us! 📞 858-304-0266 Leave us a voicemail — your story might be featured on the show!

What we're Sipping Jessica ia aipping a 2022 Parra Wine Co. Chardonnay from Zenith Vineyards in Oregon's Willamette Valley, while Marisa sips nettle tea with electrolyte salt. Episode Summary In this episode of Wine & Chisme, Jessica sits down with Marisa Gonzales, a proud Mexican-American graphic designer, brand strategist, and the founder of Marisa Gonzalez Studios, for a deeply personal and empowering conversation. Based in Kansas City, Kansas, Marisa shares what it was like growing up as one of the only Latinas in a predominantly white suburb of Missouri, how chronic migraines and a serious car accident reshaped her path, and how she overcame medication dependency to reclaim her health and creativity. She also opens up about walking away from a toxic corporate job as a new mom, and how all of these experiences led her to build an intentional, client-centered design business that centers the voices of women, minorities, and nonprofits. What We Cover in This Episode Growing up Latina in Blue Springs, Missouri, one of the only Mexican-American families in a predominantly white suburb How Marisa's parents kept her culture alive through weekly family dinners, Mexican music, and tostadas at abuela's house- even without teaching Spanish The shared Gen X/elder Millennial experience of being raised without Spanish, and the generational trauma behind it Experiencing racial bias in school. From a teacher who gave her less attention than white students, to friends casually throwing around slurs The car accident in her 20s that broke her nose, injured her spine (C1/Atlas), and escalated into chronic migraines Her journey with Fioricet dependency, the first time she has spoken about this publicly, and how her husband Travis helped her taper off gradually Overcoming rebound migraines caused by the very medication she was using to function at work The toxic corporate job she left cold- on the day they wrote her up for calling in after her infant son got sick Using her maternity leave to quietly build her design business on the side before making the leap full-time Her non-traditional career path: graphic design → production artist → burned out at 2008 recession → physical therapy assistant → office job → full-time entrepreneur How her dad's encouragement to "follow your heart" changed the direction of her life What it means to center Latinidad and lived experience in brand strategy How she vets clients and intentionally limits her workload to protect her health and family Her certifications: Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) and MWBE through the Kansas Department of Commerce Practical branding insight: why having a "signature look" is non-negotiable for standing out About Marisa Gonzales Marisa Gonzales is the CEO, Principal Strategist, and Designer of Marisa Gonzalez Studios, a boutique brand and web design agency based in Kansas City, Kansas. She helps women-owned businesses, minority entrepreneurs, and nonprofits build standout brands and websites that don't just look beautiful — they work. A proud Mexican-American woman, Marisa grew up in Blue Springs, Missouri, navigating life as one of the few Latinas in a predominantly white community. That experience — of being unseen, mislabeled, and underestimated — shapes everything about how she shows up for her clients today. She is certified as a Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) and as a Minority Women's Business Enterprise (MWBE) through the Kansas Department of Commerce. Marisa also lives with chronic migraines and late-diagnosed ADHD, and has built her business around flexibility, intentionality, and listening to her body — modeling for her clients that sustainable success is possible. Connect with Marisa Marisa's Website: MarisaGstudios.com → MarisaGstudios.com Instagram: @MarisaGStudios Facebook: Marisa G. Studios LinkedIn: Marisa Gonzalez

Wine Selection French Vinchot (mulled wine) - the last of a homemade batch from the holidays Episode Description Political scientist and paralegal Desiree Collado joins Jessica Yanez for an urgent conversation about Latino identity, political power, and community protection. With over 30 years of experience and work with the United Nations, Desiree breaks down the current political landscape and provides practical guidance for navigating uncertain times. Desiree Collado is a Dominican-American political scientist and paralegal with 30+ years of experience. She has worked with UN ambassadors on international resolutions and is dedicated to preserving Latino narratives and advancing understanding of the Latine experience. Guest Bio Desiree Collado is a Dominican-American political scientist and paralegal with 30+ years of experience. She has worked with UN ambassadors on international resolutions and is dedicated to preserving Latino narratives and advancing understanding of the Latine experience. Timestamps & Topics [00:00:00] Introduction Jessica introduces the urgency of today's conversation Why this episode focuses on current political events [00:04:00] Growing Up Between Two Worlds [00:12:00] Assimilation vs. Identity [00:16:00] Living on the Hyphen [00:23:00] Military Service & Exploitation [00:26:00] Anger as a Love Language [00:28:00] The GOP Strategy: Repetition [00:29:00] Plan, Don't Panic [00:37:00] Credentials & Qualifications [00:42:00] Latino Political Power [00:45:00] They Colonized the Rich [00:48:00] Venezuela Discussion [00:57:00] The Identity Crisis Continues [01:03:00] Optimism for the Next Generation [01:06:00] This Cannot Last Long [01:09:00] Practical Safety Tips [01:13:00] Minnesota Police Officers Stopped by ICE [01:16:00] Final Call to Action Connect with Desiree Instagram: @MadiDez (follow stories for sourced political analysis)

Welcome back to the second half of Season 6 of Wine & Chisme. Before diving into this special festival episode, host Jessica Yañez addresses the current state of our nation and the importance of community solidarity during these challenging times. In this episode, Jessica takes you to the O'wineside Baja Wine Festival, the second annual celebration of Mexican wine and Baja California's culinary spirit held in Oceanside, California. Join her as she connects with vintners from Valle de Guadalupe and shares their incredible stories and wines with you. Episode Highlights: A heartfelt message about current events and community resilience Behind-the-scenes footage from the O'wineside Baja Wine Festival Exclusive interviews with Baja California vintners An introduction to Mexico's premier wine region: Valle de Guadalupe Wineries Featured (in order of appearance): Salto de Fe Valle de Tintos Vinos de Garza Vinos Senti Menti Lomita Finca La Carrodilla Mina Penelope Winery Emevé Solar Fortún Hacienda Guadalupe Wines Vena Cava Winery Bodegas de Santo Tomás Vinos Plata Event Details: When: October 2025 (Second Annual Event) Where: Valle Oceanside at Mission Pacific Beach Resort, Pacific Lawn, Oceanside, CA Hosted by: MICHELIN-starred Chef Roberto Alcocer in partnership with La Competencia Distributing Featured: 27+ premium Baja California wineries Wines Tasted: 80+ wines from Valle de Guadalupe Culinary Experience: Gourmet bites featuring Imperia Caviar, 5 Jotas Jamón Ibérico, and Harbor Pelican Fish Market Baja Oysters Valle de Guadalupe is Mexico's premier wine-producing region, often called "the Tuscany of Mexico" or compared to Napa Valley from decades past. Key Facts: Location: Just 90 minutes south of San Diego and 14 miles north of Ensenada Production: Produces approximately 90% of all Mexican wine Number of Wineries: Nearly 200 wineries (as of 2024) Climate: Mediterranean-like climate with proximity to the Pacific Ocean Elevation: Vineyards planted at altitudes between 1,000-1,250 feet History: Wine production dating back to 1791 when Jesuit priests began growing grapes Learn More About Valle de Guadalupe: Valle de Guadalupe is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the Americas The region holds an annual Fiestas de la Vendimia (Wine Harvest Festival) Most Valle de Guadalupe wines are consumed within Mexico and rarely exported to the US US Customs Information for Wine: California residents: 2 bottles per person duty-free Non-California residents: Up to 5 cases of wine allowed Always declare your purchases and follow customs regulations This episode begins with a powerful message about recent events affecting our community. Jessica honors the names of those we've lost: Renee Nicole Good Alex Pretti Luis Gustavo Nuñes Cáceres Geraldo Lunas Campos Victor Manuel Diaz Parady La Luis Beltrán Yañez-Cruz Heber Sanchez Dominguez Liam Ramos and countless others still being held in detention centers The Wine & Chisme Podcast creates an intimate space where professionals, artists, and changemakers across communities of color share their unfiltered stories of career, love, and personal transformation—all over a glass of wine and genuine conversation. Connect with Wine & Chisme: Website: www.thewineandchismepodcast.com Instagram: @thewineandchisme Host & Creator: Jessica Yañez Episode Theme: O'wineside Baja Wine Festival Season: 6 Production: Jessica Yañez

Hola mi gente! Welcome to our year-end chisme episode where Jessica and Erica break down EVERYTHING that happened in 2025—the good, the messy, and the absolutely wild. IN THIS EPISODE: Why this felt like the longest AND shortest year ever The Trump administration's impact on our communities Kendrick vs. Drake: The Super Bowl moment that changed everything Prince Royce & Romeo Santos' disappointing ICE interview response Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce's engagement + the controversy around her silence Jimmy Kimmel & Stephen Colbert's cancellations The CBS News shakeup & Barry Weiss controversy Madonna & Cher dating younger men (and why the double standard is real) The death of MTV as we knew it Diddy documentary & Danity Kane resurgence PLUS: Wine & Chisme podcast stats—770% audience growth! 🎉 What We're Drinking: Jessica: Vin Chaud (French mulled wine made by Antonio) Erika: Orange juice (with imaginary Prosecco 😂) 2026 Plans: Taking January off, returning in February with fresh interviews and wine stories. Ready to let go of fear and step into our power!

Join Jessica Yañez for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation with Raven Rodriguez, the viral TikTok creator behind the beloved music reaction videos with her Gen Z and millennial daughters. With over 280,000 followers, Raven has built a community by showing her daughters '70s and '80s music videos—and their reactions are pure comedy gold. In this episode, Raven shares the origin story of how blocking her daughter on TikTok led to internet fame, why she shows Maya "traumatic" videos (Chris Hansen has entered the chat!), and how she's intentionally breaking toxic generational patterns in Latino households. From sneaking out as a teen to creating safe spaces for her daughters, Raven opens up about motherhood, mistakes, and building trust through adaptability. You'll laugh, you'll cringe at the problematic lyrics we all sang without thinking, and you'll leave inspired by the beautiful relationship Raven has cultivated with her daughters—one video at a time. Topics discussed: How Raven's TikTok journey started (spoiler: her daughter blocked her) The viral music reaction videos and why they resonate Growing up Latina in the '80s vs. raising Gen Z daughters Normalizing inappropriate male behavior in music and culture Breaking generational trauma and building trust with your kids Chris Hansen, Queen Latifah, and the running jokes that unite generations Why social anxiety doesn't stop Maya from being hilarious on camera Upcoming movies and songs Raven can't wait to show her daughters Follow Raven Rodriguez: TikTok: @blkbird8

What Cynthia's Drinking: Freixenet Zero Brut (non-alcoholic sparkling wine) What Jessica's Drinking: 2023 Chenin Blanc from Encanto Vineyards (Lake County) This week on Wine & Chisme, we sit down with Cynthia Prato- Army veteran, author, and certified life coach, for one of our most powerful conversations yet. Cynthia opens up about enlisting in the National Guard on a dare, becoming a military interrogator, and being one of the only women in her unit. She shares her experiences with military sexual trauma (MST), the PTSD she carried silently for years, and the moment she realized her unhealed trauma was affecting her son. From growing up as a Mexi-Nica in Miami to serving in Hungary during post-9/11 tensions, Cynthia's journey is raw, real, and ultimately redemptive. We talk about: ✨ Being the first Latina woman in her family to serve ✨ Navigating relationships while carrying unprocessed trauma ✨ The decision to stop drinking and start healing ✨ Setting boundaries with family ✨ Why self-care doesn't require a spa day ✨ How to find your purpose when life doesn't go as planned This conversation gets deep, but it's also filled with hope, humor, and hard-earned wisdom. Cynthia reminds us that healing isn't linear, it's never too late to choose yourself, and whatever you're not changing, you're choosing. Guest: Cynthia PratoWebsite: BeyondTheHorizonllc.comInstagram: @beyondthehorizonconsultingBook: Get It Together Without Losing Your Mind (Available on Amazon)

Wine of the Episode: 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon by Delgadillo Cellars Join Jessica Yañez and Erika Sanchez for a late November/early December Chisme session where they dive deep into cultural conversations, community boundaries, and current events over wine. From Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance to debates about representation and AI technology, this episode covers the complex gray areas we navigate in modern life. [00:00 - 07:00] Welcome Back & Thanksgiving Catch-Up Taking a Thanksgiving break (no apologies!) Family gatherings and blending in-laws The 22-pound turkey situation and plans for smoked turkey feasts [07:00 - 10:00] Wine Time Jessica's 2016 Delgadillo Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Erika's Cointreau Citrus Spritz Announcing the updated Tamales & Wine Guide (coming mid-December!) [10:00 - 24:00] Bad Bunny, Rosalía & Cultural Pride Bad Bunny announced as Super Bowl halftime performer The controversial Rosalía response and "colonizer behavior" Katie Miller's podcast with Charlotte Jones about the performance Why Bad Bunny's unapologetic Spanish-language stance matters [24:00 - 37:00] Community Conversations & Boundaries When to center yourself vs. when to listen The Bomba debate and staying in your lane Protecting community while avoiding division Learning from lived experiences outside your own [32:00 - 35:00] Coleman Domingo & Representation Latine representation in "Wicked" Two things can be true: being Black AND Latino Breaking down limiting perspectives on identity [35:00 - 42:00] Unity vs. Division Historical context: when Irish and Italians weren't considered "white" Economic issues disguised as racial ones The importance of respectful disagreement Why echo chambers prevent growth [42:00 - 50:00] AI Resurrection App The creepy new app for "talking" to deceased loved ones Jessica's memories of her grandmother Alternative: recording parents' stories with QR codes Does AI help or hinder the grieving process? [50:00 - 58:00] CBS Paramount Layoffs & DEI Dismantling All people of color laid off; white employees reassigned The importance of DEI beyond just race Barry Weiss named editor-in-chief despite no network experience What happens when we lose diverse newsrooms [58:00 - 1:07:00] Mariah Carey's Sephora Ad The commercialization of "It's Time" Tone-deaf timing with SNAP benefits controversy When organic moments become marketing strategies The "Sephora kids" phenomenon [1:07:00 - 1:16:00] Money, Greed & Billionaires Why do wealthy people always want more? Elon Musk as the first trillionaire Comparing Mackenzie Scott's giving to others' hoarding Jeff Bezos sponsoring the Met Gala and buying Condé Nast [1:16:00 - 1:21:00] Is Vogue Still Relevant? How smartphones and social media changed fashion media The double-edged sword of instant information Missing the early days of organic Instagram [1:21:00 - 1:27:00] AI Everywhere Can't tell what's real anymore Protecting elderly parents from sophisticated scams The danger of AI voice replication When convenience becomes scary [1:27:00 - 1:34:00] Golden Girls Are Forever Watching the Golden Girls special Realizing they were in their 50s and working! How ahead of their time they were on social issues Betty White's legacy and San Diego's own Mario Lopez [1:34:00 - End] Final Thoughts Living in the gray area of life No one can take away your determination Recapping the year ahead Preserving ourselves with wine! The Wine & Chisme Podcast celebrates Latine voices, culture, and community—one glass of wine and honest conversation at a time.

What We Are Sipping On: 2022 Chardonnay, Parra Wine Co. Episode Description In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Wine & Chisme Podcast, Jessica sits down with Vanessa Vigil, Chief Marketing Officer at nglMitú, a leading digital media brand dedicated to elevating Latiné voices and culture. Vanessa shares her personal journey into media, the evolution of nglMitú, and the responsibility and joy that come with telling authentic stories from across the Latiné diaspora. From combating stereotypes to celebrating our community’s joy, creativity, and complexity, Vanessa breaks down how nglMitú uses storytelling to shift narratives in mainstream media — and why representation behind the scenes matters just as much as what appears on screen. Grab your glass and settle in — this conversation is honest, empowering, and full of the cariño and cultura you expect from Wine & Chisme. Key Takeaways Authentic storytelling is a responsibility, not a trend. Vanessa shares why nglMitú centers lived experience, community insight, and nuance in every project. Diversity within the Latiné community must be acknowledged and celebrated. One narrative can’t represent an entire diaspora — and nglMitú reflects that through multiple creators and voices. Representation behind the scenes matters. Hiring Latiné creatives, writers, and decision-makers directly impacts the stories that reach the public. Community is a superpower in media. nglMitú’s success stems from building trust and creating content that resonates across generations. Brands and partners play a role. Vanessa explains how collaborative opportunities can elevate Latiné creators instead of stereotyping them. Latiné joy is revolutionary. Telling stories that highlight our humor, brilliance, resilience, and love shifts culture more than people realize.

🍇 Wines Featured Jessica: 2001 Día de los Muertos Cabernet Sauvignon by Honrama Cellars Lupe: Loves chilled Pinot Noir and Cunois but was traveling during this recording Episode Summary In this powerful and deeply insightful episode, Jessica sits down with Lupe Rodríguez, Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice. Together, they unpack what reproductive justice truly means for the Latiné community — from access and education to bodily autonomy and policy representation. Lupe shares her journey from science and advocacy to leading one of the nation’s most impactful organizations fighting for reproductive freedom. This conversation dives into the intersections of health care, immigration, and social justice — and why it’s critical for Latiné voices to be centered in these conversations. Connect with Lupe Rodríguez National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice https://www.latinainstitute.org IG: @latinainstitute

Wine I'm Drinking: 2021 Día de Muertos Cabernet by Honrama Cellers

This week we're sipping on: Jessica: 2022 Merlot from Vinos Unidos, Sonoma, CA Erika: 2012 Pinotage from Oak Mountain Winery, Temecula, CA October is here, spooky season is wrapping up, and Jessica and Erika are catching up like only they can — with laughter, a little chaos, and a lot of chisme! From how fast the year has flown by to cozy fall rituals, funny life updates, and the realities of adulting, this episode is your monthly dose of wine-fueled girl talk.

🍷 Featured Wine: Balanza Vineyards Rosé of Pinot Noir – a crisp, elegant rosé from Willamette Valley, OR. Episode Summary: In this episode of The Wine & Chisme Podcast, host Jessica Yañez sits down with Crystal Roman, the powerhouse founder, CEO, and creative behind The Black Latina Movement. Jessica and Crystal dive deep into what it means to claim space in media, own your identity, and challenge the narratives that have historically erased Afro-Latine voices. From creating opportunities for women of color on stage and screen to navigating the complexities of identity, Crystal shares her journey of turning frustration into fuel and passion into purpose. ⏰ Timestamps & Notable Moments 0:02 – Welcome & IntroductionsJessica introduces Crystal Roman, highlighting her multifaceted roles as founder, writer, producer, and CEO of The Black Latina Movement. 1:20 – Representation in MediaJessica and Crystal discuss the critical importance of visibility for Black and Brown women in storytelling and production. 5:45 – Owning Identity in a Fragmented Media Landscape Crystal opens up about creating a movement that honors intersectionality — and how authenticity became her greatest strength. 12:10 – Building a Movement from the Ground Up How The Black Latina Movement began as a small theater project and grew into a nationwide platform amplifying underrepresented voices. 18:30 – The Weight of Being “The First” Crystal shares candid reflections on being a trailblazer in spaces that weren’t built for her — and how community keeps her grounded. 24:00 – Representation Beyond the Screen A conversation on why media ownership and decision-making roles matter just as much as on-camera representation. Connect with Crystal Website: www.blacklatinamovement.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blacklatinamovement/

🍷 Featured Wine: Parra Wino Co – “Tómalo Frío” Content Notice: This episode contains candid conversations about childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, complex trauma, and the emotional impact of immigration experiences. We discuss survivor stories and the healing journey with sensitivity and care. If you are currently in crisis or these topics feel overwhelming, please prioritize your well-being. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) and RAINN's National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-4673) offer free, confidential support 24/7. We believe in the power of sharing our stories, and we honor wherever you are in your own journey. Take care of yourself, and come back when you're ready. Con amor,Jessica & The Wine & Chisme Team Episode Summary In this deeply honest and empowering conversation, host Jessica Yañez sits down with Rosa Casquino, a Latine licensed clinical social worker, trauma therapist, and speaker who helps survivors of childhood sexual abuse and toxic relationships reclaim their power. Rosa shares her personal and professional insight into how trauma shows up in everyday life, why many people don’t realize they’re in toxic situations, and how to begin healing. Together, Jessica and Rosa explore how community, culture, and conversation are vital in the journey toward self-trust and freedom. Timestamps & Key Moments 00:00 – Intro & WelcomeJessica introduces Rosa and sets the tone for a brave, healing conversation. 03:20 – Meet Rosa Casquino, LCSWRosa shares her background, her work with trauma survivors, and her mission to help people feel less alone in their experiences. 07:45 – The Complexity of Recognizing TraumaHow childhood patterns and cultural expectations can make it hard to identify toxic dynamics later in life. 13:10 – Cultural Silence and ShameThe unspoken rules within Latiné communities that keep people quiet about abuse — and how breaking that silence is an act of liberation. 20:25 – Healing Isn’t LinearRosa discusses what healing really looks like — the ups, the relapses, and the courage it takes to keep showing up for yourself. 28:40 – Tools for SurvivorsHow to find the right therapist, build emotional safety, and create supportive spaces for your healing journey. 35:50 – Jessica’s ReflectionJessica shares how conversations like this remind her why Wine & Chisme exists — to heal, connect, and empower through storytelling. 40:00 – Closing ThoughtsRosa offers a message of hope and encouragement to anyone listening who’s still finding their way through the pain. Connect with Rosa: Website: Https://thehealingguidecounseling.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.healing.guide.therapist TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehealingguidetherapist

Wine in This Episode: Seis Soles, 2022 'Colibri' Lodi Carignane In this week's conversation, Jessica welcomes back returning guest Rachel Matos — a creative leader and storyteller who shares how her journey has evolved since her last appearance on the show. Together, they explore what it means to honor change, step away from outdated expectations, and embrace the messy, beautiful reality of growth. Rachel opens up about finding peace in transition, redefining what success looks like in this stage of her life, and how she continues to show up for herself and her community with authenticity. This episode is a reminder that evolution isn’t about starting over — it’s about becoming more of who you’ve always been. Connect with Rachel: Website: https://racheldmatos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racheldmatos/ Connect with The Wine & Chisme: Website: https://www.thewineandchismepodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewineandchisme/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thewineandchisme YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewinechismepodcast