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The Wine & Chisme Podcast

The Wine & Chisme Podcast
Author: Jessica Yañez
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Description
The Wine & Chisme Podcast was created to share the stories of everyday people doing extraordinary things to serve their community. Our host, Jessica Yañez brings her love for wine and passion for storytelling together to highlight the stories that need to be told in communities of color. Chisme (Spanish for gossip) comes from the interviewees themselves as they "spill the wine" on their own terms. So grab a glass of wine and join us for the new Wednesday. #WineAndChismeWednesday
237 Episodes
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Mi gente, join Jessica, Joye (of Joye's Gone Grazey Charcuterie) @joyesgonegrazey and Natalie of @larchmont.charcuterie on for an afternoon that’s all about community and connection. Listen as we walk through fabulous wines crafted by Latiné owned wine brands while creating the perfect cheese & charcuterie board.
Our Wine & Cheese Pairing event not only celebrates the incredible work of Black and Brown owned businesses but also gives back to our community.
Wines:
🍷 Sparkling Gewürtzaminer by @parrawineco
🍷 2022 Chardonnay by @surcoswines
🍷 2022 Pinot Noir by @1467cellars
🍷 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon by @1467cellars
🍷 Pinotage by @oakmountainwinery
Wine: Special Tasting Experience
During the interview, Chris, owner of Seis Soles, guided the conversation through a curated wine tasting, adding an extra layer of flavor and intimacy to the discussion. Listeners will get a sensory journey alongside Julissa's career narrative.
Episode Highlights
In this exciting episode, host Jessica sits down with Julissa Bermudez, a pioneering Latina entertainment personality and entrepreneur who has left an indelible mark on pop culture television and the beauty industry. Recorded at the intimate Seis Soles wine tasting room in downtown Orange, California, this interview offers an intimate look into Julissa's remarkable career and personal journey.
Guest Profile
Julissa Bermudez is a Dominican-American actress, TV host, beauty influencer, entrepreneur, and founder of Republica Skin Care. Notable achievements include:
- First Latina co-host of BET's iconic "106 & Park"
- MTV host for major shows like "The Hills: Finale" and Jersey Shore specials
- Co-star of reality series "Empire Girls: Julissa and Adrienne" on the Style network
- Founder of Republica Skin Care
Julissa shares the inspiring story behind her skincare brand, Republica Skin:
Inspiration: Born from years of searching for the perfect body treatment
Mission: Celebrating Dominican heritage through skincare
Philosophy: "Our skin tells a sweet story of our roots"
Approach: Clean bodycare inspired by nature
Tagline: Skin sweet as sugar™
Conversation Highlights
- Her groundbreaking role at BET and breaking barriers in television
- Behind-the-scenes stories from hosting some of TV's most popular shows
- Transitioning from television to entrepreneurship
- The inspiration behind Republica Skin Care
- Navigating multiple career paths in entertainment and beauty
Key Takeaways
- The importance of representation in media and entrepreneurship
- Celebrating cultural heritage through business
- Balancing multiple career paths
- The power of creating products that tell a personal story
Connect with Julissa
Instagram
Republica Skin Care Website: republicaskin.com
*Recorded at Seis Soles Wine Tasting Room, Downtown Orange, CA*
Wine: Seis Soles White Wine Blend
Get ready for a no-holds-barred conversation as Arivee Vargas joins the Wine & Chisme podcast! 🍷💁🏽♀️ We're diving deep into the raw, real experiences of a first-generation Latina lawyer-turned-coach who's breaking boundaries and spilling all the tea about navigating success, motherhood, and professional growth.
Chisme Alert:
- The REAL story behind becoming a top executive coach
- Hilarious and honest moments from her journey as a first-generation professional
- Unfiltered advice for women climbing the career ladder
- How she balances being a Latina, mother, lawyer, and total boss
Guest Spotlight: Arivee Vargas
Who She Is: Lawyer, executive coach, podcast host, and soon-to-be author who's been featured everywhere from Oprah Daily to Forbes
Claim to Fame: LinkedIn Top Thought Leadership Voice (2024) and basically the person you want in your corner when life gets complicated
Quotable Moments (Prepare to Screenshot!)
"Success isn't about fitting in—it's about standing out and owning your story." - Arivee Vargas
Connect & Follow
Instagram: @AriveeVargas
Book "Your Time to Rise" (Coming January 2025)
Website: AriveeVargas.com
Podcast: Humble Rising
Tasting flights:
RESERVE : SPARKLING ROSÉ, SAUVIGNON BLANC-SEMILLON, PINOT NOIR, SCIELO TINTO
SCIELO: SAUVIGNON BLANC, RIESLING ,SCIELITO LINDO, SPARKLING MERLOT
SEPTEMBER: SCIELO CHARDONNAY, SCIELO ROSÉ, SKIN-CONTACT GEWÜRZTRAMINER, DIA DE LOS MUERTOS MALBEC
Wine Journey Chisme 🍷
- From Oregon to Long Island: Leo Mora's unexpected wine adventure
- Breaking barriers in the wine industry as a Latino winemaker
- The unique story behind RGNY Winery's leadership and vision
Website: https://www.rgnywine.com/
Instagram
Wine: Unknown
Join Jessica as her husband, Antonio as he spills the chisme on how 2024 has drasticallly changed their lives, and their relationship. From planning and getting married to a major career pivot for Antonio, he shares the ups, downs, and why he things he is entering the his best chapter in life so far.
Wine: 2019
In this gripping episode, we sit down with Stephanie Vasquez, author of the electrifying thriller 'All Our Wars'. Join us as we explore the intricate layers of her novel, which delves deep into the complex world of a cartel leader's daughter fighting to break free from her dangerous past.
Stephanie Vasquez is a bi-cultural Mexican American writer with a unique perspective shaped by her upbringing sixty miles north of the US–Mexico border. Her academic background in journalism and Latin American Studies from the University of Arizona provides a rich contextual lens for her storytelling.
Episode Highlights
Insights into the inspiration behind 'All Our Wars'
Exploring the intersections of identity and family history
The writing process and research behind the novel
Navigating storytelling as a bi-cultural Mexican American author
Connect with Stephanie Vasquez
www.stephanievasquezauthor.com
Instagram
Trigger Warning: This episode and book contain discussions of cartel violence and complex family dynamics
Featured Wine: 2020 Sauvingon Blanc, Surcos Wines
Pour yourself a glass and join us for an inspiring conversation with Mike Alfaro, the creative genius behind Millennial Lotería. From reimagining a beloved cultural classic to collaborating with major brands and even the White House, Mike shares his journey as a bilingual content creator and award-winning creative director.
Episode Highlights:
• The story behind Millennial Lotería's creation and its explosive success at Target
• Mike's experience working with major brands like Honda, Disney, and DC Comics
• The special commission from President Joe Biden
• Insights into navigating the creative industry as a bilingual professional
• Behind-the-scenes stories of building a viral cultural phenomenon
Key Topics Discussed:
🎯 Breaking into mainstream retail with a cultural product
🎨 Creative direction in multicultural markets
🌟 Brand collaborations and partnerships
💡 Modernizing traditional games for new generations
🔥 Building a successful personal brand
Where to Find Mike:
• Millienial Lotería Instagram
• Sí Sabo Kids Instagram
• TikTok
• Website: https://millennialloteria.com/
Connect with Wine & Chisme:
• Instagram
• TikTok
• Website: https://www.thewineandchismepodcast.com
In this special episode of The Wine & Chisme Podcast, we’re taking you straight to NYC for an unforgettable evening at our "Vino y Bocaditos" event. This gathering brought together passionate wine enthusiasts and wine brands proudly owned by Latiné vintners, including Gonzales Wine Company, Monroy Wines, Oak Mountain Winery, RGNY Wines, and Surcos Wine. We dove deep into the stories, struggles, and successes behind each label, celebrating the vibrant cultures and communities that these wines represent.
Joining us as a special guest was Leo Mora, head viticulturist at RGNY. With his expertise, we explored the craft and science of winemaking, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous work that goes into every bottle. From soil and climate to harvest and fermentation, Leo shared his knowledge on what it truly takes to create an exceptional wine that honors both tradition and innovation.
Tune in to discover how these Latiné-owned brands are reshaping the wine industry, preserving heritage, and making an impact on the palates and hearts of wine lovers everywhere. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply curious about the people behind the bottle, this episode promises inspiration, insight, and, of course, a good dose of chisme.
Pour yourself a glass and settle in for a wild story, as Jessica takes us through the harrowing three-month saga that culminated in her neighbor starting a fire in their apartment building.
This Episode's Pour - Cabernet Sauvignon by Monroy Wines
*Grab your favorite stress-relieving red - you'll need it for this story!*
📝 Episode Summary
In this episode, Jessica opens up to Erika about the terrifying ordeal she experienced with her neighbor, chronicling the 98-day descent into chaos that ultimately led to a dangerous apartment fire. From early warning signs to the final dramatic incident, we explore:
- The first red flags that something wasn't right next door
- Escalating incidents over three months
- Building management's response (or lack thereof)
- The night of the fire and its immediate aftermath
- The emotional toll of living through prolonged neighbor disputes
- Important lessons about tenant rights and safety
Key Moments
- The initial signs of trouble
- Failed attempts to resolve the situation
- Documentation and reporting process
- The fire incident
- Emergency response
- Aftermath and resolution
Connect With Us
- Follow us on Instagram: @thewineandchisme
- Join our Facebook Group: The Wine & Chisme Podcast Community
- Email us your stories: hola@thewineandchismepodcast.com
🗣️ Share Your Story
Have you dealt with nightmare neighbors? Share your experience in our Facebook group or email us. Your story might help others dealing with similar situations.
Wine:
Episode Summary
Ashley K. Stoyanov Ojeda is a trailblazing multicultural business strategist and author who's revolutionizing the landscape for Latina and Latine femme entrepreneurs. With her groundbreaking Spanglish business book "Jefa in Training" and extensive experience in business development, Ashley shares her journey of creating inclusive spaces and empowering diverse entrepreneurs.
Guest Bio
Ashley K. Stoyanov Ojeda is a Mexican-French business strategist, bestselling author, and speaker with over a decade of experience in business development, community marketing, and communications. She's the author of "Jefa in Training: The Business Startup Toolkit for Entrepreneurial and Creative Women," the first Spanglish business-launching book.
Episode Highlights
The story behind creating the first Spanglish business-launching book
Growing up with Mexican and Fench backgrounds and how that impacted the world around her
How the Jefa in Training Circle is building a community for Latina entrepreneurs
Insights on multicultural business strategy and community marketing
Discussion of business and cultural retreats for entrepreneurs
Her struggles with infertility
Notable Achievements
- Featured in Telemundo, mitú, Nasdaq, Forbes, People en Español, and Business Insider
- Collaborations with Google, Pepsico, Adidas, and other major corporations
- Created the Jefa in Training Circle, a membership-based community for entrepreneurs
- Reaches over 7,000 followers and newsletter subscribers
- Regular speaker at prestigious events including Montclair University's Women's Entrepreneurship Week
What's Next
- Launching a weekly newsletter highlighting diverse entrepreneurs
- Second book in development
- Continuing to expand business and cultural retreats
- Growing the Jefa in Training Circle community
Connect with Ashley
Website: www.ashleykstoyanovojeda.com
Wine:
In this episode, we welcome Victoria Jenn Rodriguez, a Master Mindset + Business Consultant, Acclaimed International Keynote Speaker, and the Host & Executive Producer of the "Banking on Cultura" Podcast. Victoria shares her expertise on helping women transition from corporate careers to entrepreneurship without sacrificing financial security.
Key Topics:
- Transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship
- Securing corporate contracts as an entrepreneur
- Breaking generational curses to build generational wealth in Latino communities
- Insights from Victoria's podcast "Banking on Cultura"
Guest Bio:
Victoria Jenn Rodriguez is a powerhouse in the business consulting world, specializing in empowering women and people of color to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams while maintaining financial stability.
Resources Mentioned:
- FREE Training: How to start and scale your business via corporate contracts https://www.victoriajenn.com/training
- "Banking on Cultura" Podcast:
- Listen on Apple Podcasts
- Learn more about Secure The Big Bag & Wellness Summit
Connect with Victoria:
- Instagram
- Website: www.victoriajenn.com
Wine:
Topics Discussed:
Political Shakeup
Biden drops out of race
"It Ends With Us" Drama
Conflict between Blake Lively, cast, and Justin Baldoni
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck Relationship Rollercoaster
Spotted making out at Beverly Hills Hotel after filing for divorce
Children present during the incident
P Diddy Allegations
Selena Gomez's Personal Revelation
Shares inability to get pregnant
Shakira Incident
Shakira forced to stop performance because she caught someone filming up her skirt
Discussion on privacy and respect for performers
MTV VMAs
Hosted by Megan Thee Stallion
40th anniversary celebration
Throwback performances
Discussion: Are the VMAs still relevant?
Nicki Jam Endorses Trump Controversy
Details about Nicki Jam's endorsement
Discussion on the impact and public reaction
Vino y Bocaditos Details
Wine: 2019 Malbec, Oak Mountain Winery
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Sol Williams, the visionary behind UNBRTHD, to discuss her journey from the Dominican Republic to becoming a successful fashion designer in the United States. Sol shares her experiences, challenges, and the philosophy that drives her brand and life.
Key Points
1. Early Life:
- Born and raised in the Dominican Republic
- Afro-Latina heritage and its influence on her work
2. The Big Move:
- Relocated to New York at age 17
- Pursuing her dream of becoming a fashion designer
3. California Dreaming:
- The move to California
- Birth of UNBRTHD brand
4. The UNBRTHD Philosophy:
- Meaning behind the name
- Importance of remaining "unbothered" by outside troubles
- Focusing on personal happiness and dreams
5. Fashion and Culture:
- How Sol's background influences her designs
- Merging Afro-Latino heritage with modern fashion
6. Overcoming Challenges:
- Experiences as an immigrant in the fashion industry
- Staying true to her vision despite obstacles
7. Success and Future Plans:
- Growth of UNBRTHD
- Sol's vision for the brand and her career
Quotes
"In order to achieve happiness and your dreams, you must remain 'UNBRTHD' by outside troubles. You must always focus on you and what makes you happy." - Sol Williams
Follow Sol Williams and UNBRTHD on social media:
Instagram
Visit the UNBRTHD website: https://www.unbthrdfashion.com/
Wine: Parra Wine Co, Tomalo Frío
In this powerful episode, Jessica sits down with Monica Rivera, a personal brand strategist, speaker, and podcaster who empowers mid-career professionals and entrepreneurs to overcome self-doubt and amplify their impact. Monica opens up about her journey of losing all her biological family by age 23 and how she fought through survival mode to turn her dreams into reality. As a proud Latina from The Bronx, Monica shares her insights on building authentic personal brands rooted in values and story, helping her clients stand out and command stages.
Key Takeaways
Personal Branding Essentials: The importance of authenticity and storytelling in building a personal brand.
Overcoming Self-Doubt and Adversity: Monica’s story of resilience and how it shaped her approach to life and business.
Commanding Stages & Platforms: Tips for becoming a captivating speaker and engaging podcast guest.
Monica’s Journey: How Monica transitioned from survival mode to thriving in her career, becoming a sought-after speaker at TEDx, The New York Times, and Podcast Movement.
Website: https://www.youwannadowhat.com/
Instagram
Join the Conversation:
Follow us: Stay connected with Wine & Chisme on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Threads.
Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Join us for a special episode of The Wine & Chisme podcast as we dive into the world of LAWineFest, featuring interviews with various wineries and beverage companies!
LAWineFest Background
- Founded in 2005 by Dr. Joel M. Fisher, PhD
- Dr. Fisher's background: Extensive travel, writing, and public education about wine
- Current leadership: Scherr Lillico (since 2020)
- Served as Fest Director for over 12 years
- 30+ years of experience as an event producer
- Mission: Introducing wines of the world to the general public – one taste at a time!
Featured Interviews
In this episode, we bring you a collage of interviews from LAWineFest, in the following order:
Summerfall Sake
Bejkseju USA
Delola
Waters Edge Winery
Cerveza Cito Beer
Monroy Wines
Generational Wealth Wines
Dizzle Liqueur
Hungry Drea Creations
Tickets for the 2025 LAWineFest are available at https://www.lawinefest.com/tickets/
Don't forget to subscribe to The Wine & Chisme podcast for more exciting episodes featuring the best in wine and conversation!
Join me and my friend Alondra as we enjoy a day of wine tasting in Valle de Guadalupe, MX and learn more about a few of these wineries and the wines.
Wineries in the order attended:
Emevé Wines
Adobe Guadalupe
Ellie's Wine: Sete Tropical Orange Wine
Jessica's Wine: 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon by Herencia del Valle
This month Ellie and I chismear from all the celebrity divorces to the VMA's and everything in-between.
Wine:
BIO:
Tiffany Yvonne Cox is a 1st generation Trinidadian actress, director, writer, and producer. She began her professional career interning at The Milwaukee Repertory Theatre. This launched her into the Chicago Theatre scene where she worked with companies such as Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, The House Theatre, The Goodman and many more.
After her first TV role on Chicago Fire she decided to move to LA where she has worked on shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, Dead To Me, and Good Trouble. She currently has a recurring role in the upcoming Raamla Mohamed/ Kerry Washington/ Larry Wilmore led legal drama Reasonable Doubt on Hulu and a lead on Hallmark’s Mahogany film Napa Ever After.
When not on screen or stage, Tiffany volunteers with the non-profit organization CSH Speak Up! where she supports those who have experienced homelessness in developing their story to share with legislation for more funding towards supportive housing. Once she realized bringing minority stories to the forefront was something she enjoyed creating through art, Tiffany began producing and directing. This began with collaborating on the Digital Series COMMUNE. Followed by her directorial debut of a short film called Roadside Assistance which has extended into a workshop on empathy and allyship.
She directed the one woman show Whoa Man by Brianna Morris, the podcast play LaDonna’s Epiphany featuring Anna Maria Horsford, and most recently Star Vehicle; a short film that is a comedic love letter to all actors with a look into the world of the diversity day player.
Follow Tiffany’s work at www.tiffanyyvonnecox.com and www.roadsideassistancewkshp.com.
Instagram
Wine: Llamas Family Wine Chardonnay
BIO:
When Luz's daughter started private school, my youngest realized she was different. She wanted to be like her friends, who had cute short blond hair and vanilla skin. One day she asked Luz if she could cut and dye her hair blonde and straighten her curls. She knew that she wanted her daughter to know how special is. The next day she shared my daughter's feelings with her teacher.
The teacher encouraged her to show her pictures of family members and important historical figures that look like us. Luz started a new bedtime routine which turned into storytelling, but more importantly, it became positive and powerful imagery of being seen and belonging. She showed her pictures of family members from great-grandmothers, aunts, uncles, and friends. To historical figures like the Mirabal Sisters, Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King, Ghandi including current figures: Barack and Michelle Obama, Oprah, Jennifer Lopez, and so on! She then shared stories of who she was as a little girl. Little did she know that her daughters experience speaks to many other children that look like her.
Children from different backgrounds and families work hard to help their children be seen and have a place to belong. I wanted to do something for my daughter to see herself, which led me to publish my first bilingual Children's book. It's essential to have diversity in children's books because children need and deserve to see themselves in stories. They should see colors, characters, and stories that speak to them!
Instagram
Facebook
I was beyond honored to be asked to MC for La Cosecha Grand Tasting by the Mexican American Vintners Association (MAVA)! This incredible event supports Mexican American vintners and raises funds for scholarships to local students.
Being part of an event that combines the celebration of wine, culture, and education is a true privilege. By showcasing the talents and passion of Mexican American vintners, La Cosecha Grand Tasting not only uplifts their contributions but also paves the way for future generations.
As the MC, I had the honor to connect with winemakers, enthusiasts, and supporters, each with their own unique stories to share. It was a joy to be part of an event that brings people together, celebrating diversity, heritage, and the magic of winemaking.
Vintners in Order of Appearance:
Rios Wine
Maldonado Wines
Seis Soles Wine
Don Chalo- Sergio
Don Chalo- Ernesto
Bazan Cellars
Mi Sueno
MaCo Wines
Llamas Family Wines
AltaMed
Aldina Vineyards
President of MAVA, Guillermo Herrera
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wow! This was the very first episode I've heard of Wone & Chisme and I absolutely loved it!!! Amazing!