In this episode of Unmute with Priya, host Priya Sudarsanam talks with Odemaris Mendoza—a lifelong educator turned storyteller—about her debut novel, The Gifts of El Jíbaro, and the heartbeat of Puerto Rican culture that inspired it. They dive deep into honoring heritage through story, sharing insights on who the jíbaro are and why their values matter, the overlooked legacy of Taíno language and traditions, and how she crafted an inviting, culture-rich novel—with a helpful on-page glossary for readers, plus recipes drawn from island life. Odemaris also discusses the promise she made to honor her father, the three-year writing journey from “first chapter jitters” to publication, and the classroom-tested ways she sparks curiosity in readers of all ages—along with candid advice for midlife creatives to “be bold” and start. Tune in to learn how memory becomes meaning on the page and what it takes to bring an island’s spirit—and its people—fully to life.www.odemaris-mendoza.compurchase the book here: https://a.co/d/10v644iIG: @odemarism
In this episode of Unmute with Priya, host Priya Sudarsanam talks with Angel Cordova, owner of Somatic Breathwork, about how somatic breathwork supports deep healing and nervous system regulation. They dive deep into what somatic breathwork is and how it works—sharing insights on releasing stored trauma (big “T” and little “t”), reprogramming subconscious patterns, and Angel’s 9D multi-dimensional sound method (headphones + eye mask + safe container) for a fully immersive, private journey. Angel also discusses her personal path from 30 years as a dental hygienist through a painful divorce to becoming a facilitator, plus client transformations—from long-term depression relief to calmer, more empowered daily living—and offers grounded advice for anyone in transition or exploring breathwork from a faith-based background. Tune in to learn how your breath can be the “remote control” for your nervous system, why integration and mindset coaching matter, and simple ways to begin a regulated, authentic life.