The Amiga Mía Talk Show

In this ep we chat all things cultural heritage of Puerto Rico, the significance of Latin music, and the powerful impact of Benito's DtMF concerts in Australia through the perspective of Monica, a Nuyorican (New Yorker with Puerto Rican/Cuban heritage) traveller. Plus insights on identity, gentrification, and cultural appreciation.Guest name: Monica, You Wanna Do WhatInstagram: @soy_amigamiaWelcome to Australia’s first media outlet that celebrates Latin & Hispanic entertainment and cultura. Proudly female-founded in 2017. www.amigamia.com.au ResourcesDtMF Official WebsitePuerto Rican Cultural HeritageGentrification and Cultural Preservation Studies First Nations Land Acknowledgment in Australia

Venezuelan-born comedian Iván José Aristeguieta sits down for an honest, funny, and surprisingly reflective conversation about migration, identity, and what it actually takes to build a career in a second language.Before Australian comedy festivals, there was biochemistry, brewing tanks, and middle management in a Venezuelan brewery. Iván shares how a science-trained brain shaped his approach to stand-up, why he transcribed comedy specials by hand before ever stepping on stage, and how he rebuilt his career from scratch after moving to Australia.We talk about accents versus fluency, bombing at corporate gigs, rewriting material for new audiences, and the real difference between “national humour” and shared human values. There’s also salsa stereotypes, Bunnings sausage sizzles, Latino nostalgia, and what it means to be “one of us” when you live between cultures.After 17 years in comedy and more than a decade on Australian stages, Iván reflects on growth, reinvention, and why his two favourite things in life are cooking and comedy: creating something and watching people enjoy it.If you’ve ever started over, lived between languages, or tried to make your own path in a new country — this one will land.Follow Iván at @ivancomedy

In this interview, Colombian Australian mum Isabel Ramirez Hurtado and Salvadorian Australian advocate Ruth Ramirez-Dib talk about raising children with Down syndrome while navigating migration, language, and life far from their motherlands.From diagnosis phone calls to community advocacy, they reflect on how words matter, why support systems need cultural care, and why disability isn’t the challenge — society is.Isabel is a board director at Down Syndrome NSW and a mum raising her son Daniel in a bilingual home in Sydney. Ruth is a community worker and the mother of Coco, bringing lived experience and deep community care to everything she does.This conversation is for Latin Australian families — and the wider diaspora — navigating disability lejos de casa.No estás sola. No estás solo. Hay comunidad.📍 Support & ResourcesDown Syndrome NSWWebsite: https://www.dsnsw.org.auInstagram: @downsyndromenswCommunity voices on Instagram:📸 Ruth & Coco: @little_ms_c📸 Isabel’s advocacy: @isabelrhThis video was produced by Amiga Mía in collaboration with Down Syndrome NSW. All perspectives shared reflect lived experience and editorial context. This space is held with care.

In this ep of the Amiga Mía Talk Show, host Michelle welcomes the Puerto Rican band Chuwi, who are currently on tour in Latin America and set to visit Sydney, Australia in Feb. 🐰 🇵🇷The band members consist of siblings Lóren, Willy, Wester and their long term friend Adrian, who share their journey from forming during the pandemic to performing at major events like the Latin Grammys. They discuss their sound as 'Chuwi Core,' the creative process, the significance of repping PR & Caribbean culture, and a pop quiz on Aussie culture. Chapters00:00 Intro to Chuwi and their Journey01:43 The Formation of Chuwi 04:38 The Essence of Puerto Rican Sound07:37 Defining Chuwi's Sound10:21 Creative Process and Intentionality13:21 Performing at the Latin Grammys15:53 Collaboration with Bad Bunny on "Weltita"20:21 The Tiny Desk Performance Experience24:59 Excitement for Aussie Shows29:49 Fun Aussie Pop Quiz #CHUWI #Puertorico #caribbean #latinmusic #badbunny #conejomalo #dtmf

I met Baz Bastian better known as @lifebybaz on the streets of Sydney CBD in December 2025, walking through the city that shaped so much of his early life.Born in Chile and raised in Australia from the age of six, Baz grew up between cultures. Sydney taught him how to move create and find his voice while Chile stayed stitched into who he is. In his late 20s, wanting to see his Tata for this 80th bday, he made the decision to move back to Santiago Chile, around six to eight months ago.Baz is a Chilean-born Australia connected creator traveller musician and video editor. You might know him for his travel videos cultural explainers or music but what makes his work hit is how real it feels. Sin filtro. Sin personaje.In this walk and talk through Sydney, Baz reflects on growing up between worlds travelling solo through South America and what the highlight reels never show. He also speaks honestly about finding people community and love that actually align with you, and how your idea of home shifts once you leave and come back.This isn’t a studio interview. It’s a real conversation. 👇 Follow BazInstagram @lifebybaz

In this episode of the Amiga Mìa Talk Show the host Michelle features a exploration of Latin American art and culture in Australia. She shares her experiences attending the Muy OLA pop-up art exhibition in Sydney, where she met and interviewed Latin American artists Rodrigo Salvadorian-Australian from Canberra, Chela Peruvian-Australian and Chilean Australians Maria Del Carmen from Sydney & Andrea Vargas from Melbourne . The episode delves into the artists' backgrounds, inspirations, and the cultural significance of their work, highlighting the intersection of Latin American heritage and Australian life.

In this episode of The Amiga Mía Talk Show, Michelle sits down with unapologetically fierce Colombian-Australian entrepreneur and DJ, Lina Zabaleta, better known as DJ Zalina. From Bogotá to Melbourne, Lina shares her journey of navigating Australia’s music industry, touring with international artists, and building Chuleo, a Latinx music movement, community, and brand that redefines the scene.Lina opens up about her challenges, wins, and the mindset that drives her, highlighting the power of representation and community in the music industry.Born in Naarm (Melbourne), Chuleo is a female-led collective that began as an underground Latinx nightclub — a safe, inclusive space for the community to shake ass, feel sexy, and celebrate culture.Today, Chuleo is expanding nationwide: touring international Latin artists, co-presenting the Cadena Latinx Art Festival with No-Reply Collective, and dropping its first line of Chuleo merch.And this? This is just the beginning. 🔥Follow Lina's journey here: Chuleo Club InstagramLina Zabaleta InstagramSky Lab Radio Show - Chuleo FM----------------Amiga Mía® is the first Hispanic & Latin media outlet to authentically celebrate cultura in Australia & across APAC. Proudly female-founded in 2017. 🔗 More stories and articles: www.amigamia.com.au 🧡 Follow us on Instagram: @soy_amigamia🎧 Listen to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2aES3cq...📩 Join the comunidad: www.amigamia.com.au/newsletter#chuleo #naarm #latinx #latinosenmelbourne #latinosenaustralia #chuleoclub

In this episode of The Amiga Mía Talk Show, host Michelle sits down with Uruguayan-Australian author Natalia Figueroa to talk all things identity, language and storytelling 💬📚Her debut novel Hailstones Fell Without Rain is more than just fiction it’s a reflection of migration, memory, and what it means to grow up between cultures. 🇺🇾🇦🇺They chat about:Navigating cultural identity as a bicultural womanThe power of writing in two languagesWhy Latin representation in Australian media mattersHow family history shapes personal voiceAnd why storytelling is a radical, healing actThis is an honest, warm and deeply inspiring convo for writers, creatives, and anyone who’s ever felt “in-between.”👇🏽 Hit play, leave us a comment and don’t forget to subscribe to support Latin stories in Australia. Full blog and transcript: www.amigamia.com.au Follow us on Instagram: @soy_amigamiaWatch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/LoVdFE7e3m0Join the comunidad: www.amigamia.com.au⁠/newsletter

🎙️ Amiga Mía Talk Show – Ep #5: Who is ALELD?In this episode, your host Michelle from Amiga Mía sits down with Sam Bissett, CEO of ALELD (Australia Latin America Emerging Leaders Dialogue), to explore how this powerful initiative is building bridges between two regions.We chat all things ALELD’s mission since its 2018 launch, its evolution, and how it's shaping the next wave of changemakers across Australia and Latin America. Sam opens up about his own leadership journey, the cultural lessons he’s embraced from Latin America, and why community engagement is at the heart of diplomacy.✨ From legacy-building to behind-the-scenes insights into ALELD events and alumni impact, this convo is a beautiful reminder that leadership, like cultura, is best when shared.¡Dale play! Y let's celebrate the future of Latin-Australian connections. 🌏Chapters00:00 Introduction to ALELD and Its Mission03:24 The Evolution of ALELD08:09 The Role of ALELD in the Community10:21 Sam Bissett's Journey to Leadership14:34 Cultural Insights from Latin America19:26 The Legacy of ALELD22:33 ALELD Events and Community Engagement24:36 Current Initiatives and Future Plans26:41 How to Get Involved with ALELDALELD Website: www.australialatam.comInstagram: @australialatamAmiga Mía® is the first Hispanic & Latin media outlet to authentically celebrate cultura in Australia & across APAC. Proudly female-founded in 2017. For more Latin Australian Community updates head to the Amiga Mía website www.amigamia.com.au.

In this ep, I chat with Bianca, a multi-talented actress, writer, and director (a queen!), who shares about her journey in the creative industry, her cultural heritage, and the inspiration behind her production company and the series 'Miss Vanguard.' She discusses the importance of representation, empowerment, and the challenges faced in the creative field, while encouraging authenticity and self-expression among individuals from diverse backgrounds.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Connection02:58 Bianca's Background and Creative Journey05:50 Cultural Heritage and Identity08:52 Launching a Production Company12:00 The Birth of Miss Vanguard14:55 Character Development and Storytelling17:55 Themes of Empowerment and Voice20:56 Future Aspirations for Miss Vanguard24:09 Challenges in the Creative Industry26:54 Encouraging Authenticity and Self-Expression29:56 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWatch the new series of MS Vanguard here: Amiga Mía® is the first Hispanic & Latin media outlet to authentically celebrate cultura in Australia & across APAC. Proudly female-founded in 2017. www.amigamia.com.au

What happens when a Colombian-Australian journalist sees injustice in the global coffee trade? She builds a movement — from her kitchen bench.In this inspiring interview, Jacqueline Arias, the founder of República Coffee, shares how her Colombian roots, Sydney upbringing, and journalistic grit led her to create Australia’s first organic, Fair trade certified coffee brand.✨ From identity to entrepreneurship, from ABC newsrooms to supermarket shelves — this is a story brewed with picardía, passion, and purpose.Don’t forget to subscribe for more powerful Latin-Australian stories that deserve the spotlight. Watch the video episode here.For more Latin Australian Community updates head to the Amiga Mía website www.amigamia.com.au. Amiga Mía® is the first Hispanic & Latin media outlet to authentically celebrate cultura in Australia & across APAC. Proudly female-founded in 2017.

In this episode of the Amiga Mia Talk Show, host Amiga Mia speaks with Alejandra Angeles (Ale), co-founder of Gals en Australia, a community dedicated to supporting Latin women in their professional and personal journeys. They discuss the challenges faced by Latina professionals in Australia, the importance of community, language, and the initiatives Gals en Australia has implemented to empower women, including the Gals Tribe mentoring program. Plus the significance of the upcoming She Rises event, and the broader impact of their work on future generations.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Gals in Australia02:47 The Birth of Gals: A Community for Latinas11:34 The Evolution of Gals: From Spanish to Trilingual15:53 Challenges Faced by Latin Professionals in Australia25:09. Empowering Women: The Gals Tribe Mentoring Program28:58 Navigating Retirement and Superannuation for Migrants31:10 Empowering Women Through Resume Building32:14 Creating a Safe Community for Women35:41 The Purpose Behind Gals in Australia38:42 Introducing She Rises: A Celebration of Latina Leadership51:57 Reflections on Being Latina in AustraliaShe Rises | Australia’s First Summit Celebrating Latina & Hispanic Leaders Summit dedicated to celebrating Latina and Hispanic women, bringing together leaders, advocates, and allies to create a more inclusive future. Through talks, panels, and networking, we aim to empower migrant women, share experiences, and strengthen the Latina community in Australia. Uniting Migrant Women, Advocates & Allies for a More Inclusive Future📅 Date: Thursday 1 May 2025📍 Venue: The Capitol Theatre, 113 Swanston Street, Melbourne⏰ Time: Doors open at 5:30 PMShe Rises: Inaugural Summit Honouring Latina & Hispanic LeadersTickets https://www.galsenaustralia.com/she-rises

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Lucerito León, artist, salsera, and community leader to talk about música, identidad, and what it means to chase dreams in Australia. ✨ We get into: The fusion of salsa & reggaetón (and how Bad Bunny’s new album hits different for immigrants) The rise of mujeres in salsa and why representation matters How music connects us across cultures & continents The power of comunidad in uplifting each other Lucerito shares her personal journey, the challenges of adapting to a new culture, and her dreams of paving the way for future generations in the music industry. Chapters: 00:00 The Fusion of Music Genres 04:51 Journey into Music: From Peru to Australia 07:42 Cultural Identity & the Immigrant Experience 10:57 Women in Salsa & Reggaetón13:41 Navigating the Music Industry as Immigrants 16:33 Personal Growth & Relationships in Music 19:59 The Impact of Music on Cultural Identity22:48 Future Aspirations & New Projects 25:36 Empowerment & Community Support 28:45 Reflections on Family & Heritage31:57 The Importance of Representation in Music #LuceritoLeón #LatinMusic #Salsa #Reggaeton #Community #BadBunny #AustraliaLatina #peruvian #peruvianaustralian

In this final EP, I change the format and invite 3 Latinas from Australia to a studio in Sydney to chat all-things Latin Christmas with me. From traditional food, to typical latin Christmas music, to what we wear and everything in-between. Hear from Ariane, Brazilian Australian, Actor, Juiliana, Australian Colombian, Latin Advocate, Garcia, Peruvian Australian, Latin Music Consultant and Michelle (and host) Australian Chilean, Latin Community Builder. Special Shoutout! I want to give a special shoutout to our sponsor, Hija Design, and share an exciting opportunity for Latin entrepreneurs and small business owners. Together with Amiga Mia, we’re offering a free brand identity package to one deserving business from our community. This isn’t just about a logo—it’s a complete package: a stunning logo, business cards, social media templates, brand guidelines, and more. The goal is to empower Latinx entrepreneurs by giving them the professional edge they need to grow and succeed. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, this initiative is about creating visibility, confidence, and community pride. We’ll also involve the community in voting for the winner, so it’s a collective celebration of entrepreneurship and creativity. Want to enter or nominate a business? Keep an eye out our Instagram (@hijadesign.co and @soy_amigamia) and website for details.. Big thanks to Hija Design for making this possible!

In this ep, I sit down with Laura Vazquez, an Argentinian-Australian actress who you might remember from the iconic Aussie TV show Home and Away back in the 90s. We get into all the things — her multicultural upbringing, what it was like navigating the Aussie entertainment scene, and how she keeps her Latina roots alive in her fam. Laura gets real about being a proud Latina in the media, why representation matters, and the impact it has on young girls seeing themselves reflected on screen. This one’s for anyone who’s ever juggled identities, repped their culture, or just needed a reminder that we belong in these spaces. 💫

In this ep, three Colombianas in Australia and I chat about the controversial lyrics of a new reggaeton song +57 "Mamacita desde 14" , exploring the impact of beauty standards and hypersexualization on young women. Guests: Diana Paez, Colombian Australian, Documentary Filmmaker Romina Aranzola, Colombian Mexican Australian, TV Presenter Emmaleen Diaz, Australian Colombian, Emerging Artist They share experiences and thoughts on how these themes manifest in their lives and communities, emphasising the importance of having open discussions about these issues and the need for accountability in the music industry, especially regarding the portrayal of women. Disclaimer, this episode discusses sensitive topics.

In this ep, I chat with Cindy Flores, a prominent figure in the Mexican Australian community and a passionate advocate for authentic Mexican cuisine. Cindy shares her journey from Guadalajara to Australia, her experiences in the culinary world, and her mission to promote la cultura Mexicana through food. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities she faced in the Australian food scene and her vision for the future of Mexican cuisine.Cindy's story is one of resilience, cultural pride, and a commitment to sharing the richness of Mexican food with a broader audience.

In this episode, I reflect on recent adventures, starting with my time in Bali, where I explored two incredible Latin-owned gems: Motel Mexicola in Canggu and Chinchorro in Ubud. Back home in Sydney, I attend of a few Latin community events, including: ✨ The Cuauhtémoc Mexican Tall Ship Gala Night 👑 The Multiverse Pageant 2024, cheering on a Latin contestant 🌄 Magia de los Andes, a cultural celebration in Western Sydney Join me for stories of connection, la cultura, and a little bit of sabor from both Bali and my beloved Latin community here in Australia. ¡Vamos a disfrutarlo juntos! 🎙️

In this ep I chat with Milena Sanchez, a London-based British Latina singer, songwriter, and podcaster who has amassed 44k following on Insta and 100k on TikTok. We chat all-things unique experiences of Latinas living in Australia and the UK, the challenges of cultural identity, and the importance of community. Milena shares her journey from childhood dreams of stardom 'mini Shakira' to navigating motherhood and her successful podcasting career. We also chat on Latin music scene, the significance of representation, and the resilience of the Latina community. Instagram TikTok

This podcast series celebrates Latin Australians who are breaking barriers. In this ep, I chat with Mariafe Artacho del Solar, an Australian volleyball 3 x Olympian with Peruvian heritage. She shares her journey from Peru to Australia at 11 years old, cultural shocks (e.g missing typical domingos con la familia in Peru) and her experience of the Olympics, including the atmosphere in the athletes' village. We also chat cultural identity as both Peruvian and Australian. Most importantly, she opens up about the importance of mindset and positive affirmations in achieving success. Talk about a role model for Latinas in Australia and across the globe!You don’t want to miss this one!