Freedom to Thrive Podcast

We honor social justice trailblazer Dolores Huerta. Dolores showed us how courage, organizing, and collective action can create lasting change and impact us all. She never stopped speaking her truth, and she never stopped fighting for the rights of farmworkers and other communities.

This week, in celebration of Dolores, we are rereleasing an interview that Hector Flores conducted with her last year. In the conversation, Dolores shares her thoughts on organizing, voting, building collective power, and finding the inspiration to keep fighting during difficult times. She reminds us that we, the people, are the source of change, and that together we have the power to make a difference.

¡Sí se puede!

Katya Grokhovsky, a Ukrainian-born, Australian-raised artist and Founding Director of The Immigrant Artist Biennial (TIAB), joins Hector Flores. Her work explores themes of gender and immigration. Listen as Katya discusses founding The Immigrant Artist Biennial as a space where artists can share their work and a platform through which immigrants can express themselves, and explains why she believes building community is one of the best responses to censorship.

Host Hector Flores is joined by Hawa Hassan, a Somali-born chef, former model, entrepreneur, and James Beard Award-winning cookbook author. She reflects on stepping away from modeling and reclaiming her own story through food, from the smell of cinnamon and chai to her mother’s spiced pasta sauce. She shares the resilience and generosity she found exploring places like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, and El Salvador for her book Setting a Place for Us.

Joanna Cuevas Ingram, NILC’s Senior Staff Attorney, closes the episode by breaking down Clinic v. Rubio, the lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s sweeping suspension of immigrant visa processing for people from 75 countries, which has kept families separated for months. She explains why the fight to enforce the court’s ruling is ongoing and what impacted families can do right now.

Our host, Hector Flores, speaks with Lumbee hoop dancer and filmmaker Eric Michael Hernandez about discovering his identity through traditional hoop dance and what it means to carry two cultures that don’t always fit the boxes people expect. Together, they explore misconceptions surrounding Native American identity, the bridges being built between Native American and Latino communities, and the harsh reality of Native people being swept up by ICE.

Host Hector Flores talks with Philadelphia-based comedian, journalist, and content creator Che Guerrero about growing up undocumented for nearly 30 years, navigating work and relationships, and the role humor has played in his life. Che discusses how immigration status can shape everyday experiences and explains how he uses comedy to connect with audiences and encourage civic participation.

Freedom to Thrive is back with Haitian singer-songwriter Paul Beaubrun, who joins host Hector Flores to talk about leaving Port-au-Prince for Brooklyn at 17, his years living as a TPS recipient, and how his storied musical family’s activist legacy shaped both his life and his new album, Vertières, including why he believes revolution has to start from within.

Multidisciplinary artist Safwat Saleem joins host Hector Flores to discuss immigration, Pakistani American identity, belonging, fatherhood, and the role of art in preserving family history. Safwat shares his nearly 20-year journey to U.S. citizenship, how he documents and humanizes the immigrant experience through creative projects, and what it means to raise children between cultures.

Fashion designer and Cindy Castro New York founder Cindy Castro joins host Hector Flores for an inspiring conversation about fashion, immigration, culture, and entrepreneurship. Castro shares her journey of building a sustainable fashion brand, overcoming challenges as an immigrant entrepreneur, and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities in the fashion industry.

Emerging Chef James Beard Award winner Adrian Torres joins host Hector Flores for a conversation about food, culinary innovation, identity, and courage. Adrian reflects on the emotional moment he shared his story as a DACA recipient at the James Beard Awards, discusses new dishes he’s developing as Executive Chef of Maximo restaurant, and shares how mentors, culture, community, and perseverance helped shape his journey.

Xochimilca recording artist and activist Xiuhtezcatl, joins host Hector Flores for a conversation about activism, art, and challenging systems of power. Drawing from his experiences as both an organizer and artist, Xiuhtezcatl explores how colonialism, politics, and other systemic forces shape social and environmental challenges affecting Indigenous communities and people worldwide.

Comedian, actor, and writer Jenny Yang kicks off Season 3 with host Hector Flores for a conversation about her Good Egg Immigrant Grocery Store Comedy Tour. Jenny shares how she’s bringing stand-up shows to immigrant-owned grocery stores across the country to raise money for local immigrant rights organizations while making people laugh. She also opens up about the failed IVF cycle that inspired the tour’s name, what it was like growing up as the child of Taiwanese immigrants, and why she’d rather build her own stage than wait for Hollywood to build one for her.

Note: This content contains details related to deaths that may be upsetting.

Join us as we wrap up Season 2 of the Freedom To Thrive: Resistance, Justice and Resilience podcast, featuring Grammy Award–winning artist Lila Downs. Host Hector Flores talks with Lila about music, her Indigenous roots, migration, and resistance.

Today, award-winning Somali multimedia artist Ifrah Mansour joins our host Hector Flores for a thoughtful conversation about life in Minneapolis during these challenging times. Ifrah reflects on how the community has rallied together to support and protect their Somali neighbors. From surviving civil war and displacement to creating art that shelters memory and healing, Ifrah shares how culture, storytelling, and care help communities live bravely and without fear.

Host Hector Flores is joined by comedian TJ (Tanael Joachim) for a conversation about comedy, immigration, and resilience. TJ reflects on growing up Haitian in America and how humor became both a coping mechanism and a tool for resistance. This episode reminds us that storytelling and laughter can build solidarity, inspire resistance, and fuel hope.

Storytelling is essential for survival. In this episode, host Hector Flores sits down with Pulitzer Prize–winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen to explore refugeedom, trauma, identity, humor, and the power of narrative in the fight against authoritarianism. From the refugee experience to the dangers of “authenticity,” Viet challenges us to tell better stories not just about ourselves, but about who we stand up for.

In this episode of Freedom to Thrive​: Resistance, Justice and Resilience, host Hector Flores is joined by ​​world-renowned artist and activist Dread Scott​. Together, they discuss his work challenging white supremacy, censorship, immigration raids, and state violence. Dread Scott reminds us that courage is contagious and art can help lead us fight.

Civil rights and labor icon Dolores Huerta delivers a masterclass in organizing, voting, collective power, and finding inspiration to keep fighting in dark times. She shares behind the scenes stories of her decades fighting for farmworker justice to protecting democracy. She is a powerful reminder we the people are the spring and WE have the power.

Freedom to Thrive returns with a powerful conversation bridging country music, justice, and community. This week, Hector sits down with rising country artist Bryan Andrews to talk about music, working-class roots, and why speaking up for immigrant families matters now more than ever. We’re also joined by organizer and strategist Eliana Fernandez, who breaks down what communities can do to stay informed, supported, and protected in these times.

In this powerful Freedom to Thrive episode, Hector sits down with ​venerated human rights lawyer and Time Magazine honoree Efrén Olivares, NILC’s Vice President of Litigation and Legal Strategy. From childhood memories on the U.S.​ Mexico border to stopping the midnight deportation of unaccompanied children, Efren shares stories of justice, resistance, and the immigrant experience that shaped him. A conversation full of corazón, courage, and the reminder that not all heroes wear capes. 

In this episode of NILC’s Freedom to Thrive, host Hector Flores sits down with Palestinian comedian, actor, and show creator Mo Amer to talk about his immigration journey, his identity, and how he transforms his lived experiences into art. From Houston to Palestine and on to Netflix breakthroughs, Mo shares stories of resilience, family, and finding freedom through storytelling.

If you love immigrant stories, comedy, or behind-the-scenes insights, this episode is a must-listen!

Freedom to Thrive: Resistance, Justice, Resilience Podcast is back with Season 2, and we’re kicking things off with a powerful first episode: “Comedy is Resistance.” Our new host, Hector Flores, an LA-based artist and founding member of Las Cafeteras, welcomes acclaimed comedian and writer Cristela Alonzo, fresh off her third Netflix comedy special, to explore how laughter fuels activism. From growing up on the border to breaking into Hollywood, Cristela shares her journey, her stand-up trilogy, Lower Class, Middle Class, Upper Class, and how rest and joy are radical tools for change.

Also in this episode: Kica Matos, president of the National Immigration Law Center (NILC), shares how people can take action and what NILC is doing to support immigrant communities.

Come for the joy and laughter, stay for the call to action. Leave renewed, ready to stand together and help our communities thrive.

Tony Award-winning costume designer and community organizer Qween Jean joins host Hector Flores for a conversation on art, belonging, and solidarity. Born in Haiti and raised in Miami, Qween Jean recently made history as the first openly trans person to win a Tony Award for Cats: The Jellicle Ball. She shares why she refuses to separate her identities from her work. Her message: our humanity is inseparable, and the fight for trans rights is also a fight for immigrant rights.

Actor and content creator Leo González sits down with host Hector Flores to open up about his path to comedy and content creation, discuss his upcoming projects, and reflect on his strong connection to, and admiration for, immigrant communities in the U.S.

Welcome to this episode of the Freedom to Thrive podcast, hosted by Héctor Flores of the band Las Cafeteras. Join us as Héctor engages in a powerful conversation with Kica Matos, a dedicated activist and President of the National Immigration Law Center. Together, they explore themes of resilience and solidarity in the fight for immigrant and human rights.

In this heartfelt episode, discover the pivotal moments that shaped Kica’s path to activism, including her early experiences in New York City and her work with Amnesty International. Their discussion covers the transformative power of music and community, as well as personal stories of resistance and courage.

With warmth and wisdom, Kica shares what inspires her to continue the fight, while Héctor discusses the significance of cultural expression in activism. Reflect on how both music and movement can unite and empower, offering hope in challenging times.

This is more than just a conversation; it’s an invitation to engage with the movement and envision a future where all individuals have the freedom to thrive. Tune in to learn how you can get involved.

The latest episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast delves into the pressing issue of immigration, shining a light on the widespread protests against ICE raids happening across the U.S. From Los Angeles to unexpected places like Alabama and Nebraska, communities are standing strong in support of immigrants.

In a poignant segment, Victoria Ballesteros is joined by Sam Cutler-Kreutz, the director of the Academy Award-nominated short film “A Lien,” along with Joanna Cuevas Ingram, a senior staff attorney at the National Immigration Law Center. They discuss the film’s powerful portrayal of a family’s encounter with ICE and share vital “Know Your Rights” information, emphasizing the importance of legal preparedness and community support.

Join the conversation as they explore the role of art and advocacy in addressing immigration challenges and inspiring collective action. This episode promises to be both informative and inspiring, highlighting the power of storytelling and solidarity.

In this episode, our podcast returns amidst a national crisis that threatens not just immigrant rights but the fundamental rights of all Americans. We explore the devastating impact of fires in Los Angeles and the power of community resilience in the face of adversity. From the ashes, a sense of solidarity emerged, showcasing the strength and spirit of diverse communities, led by immigrants and women of color.

As the nation faces an onslaught of legislative and executive actions eroding civil liberties, we delve into the implications of these changes on our liberty and democracy. Today we will highlight the necessity of resistance in its many forms, from activism to art, as we unite against rising extremism.

Join us in holding onto our shared humanity and engaging in meaningful dialogue with inspiring guests, while we stand together to preserve our democracy in these formidable times.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros speaks with Roxanne Coady, founder of R.J. Julia Booksellers and Read to Grow. Roxanne shares her journey and the role that literature has played in her life. Her love for books, fostered by her father, a Hungarian immigrant baker, not only shaped her life but also inspired her to open a bookstore that serves as a community refuge and a hub for civil conversation.

The conversation touches on the transformative power of books in awakening societal consciousness and driving social justice movements. Roxanne discusses her family’s immigrant experience, the value of storytelling, and how books can act as a powerful medium to build empathy and understanding. The episode also delves into the current anti-immigrant sentiment and the importance of maintaining spaces for open dialogue through literature.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive Podcast, Victoria Ballesteros delves into the eye-opening documentary ‘Borderland, The Line Within.’ The film explores the pervasive and hidden border industrial complex that stretches far beyond the southwestern U.S., highlighting its impact in communities nationwide.

Join Victoria as she speaks with the documentary’s filmmakers Pamela Yates and Paco de Onis, and digital humanist Alex Gil. They discuss the powerful stories of immigrants navigating a dysfunctional system and the staggering data illustrating the reach and profits of the border industry.

This conversation sheds light on the courage and resilience of immigrants, the influence of the border industrial complex, and the urgent need for reform in immigration narratives and policies. Discover the depth of this issue and explore the transformative potential of the film as a call to action.

In this special post-election episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros engages in a crucial conversation with Kica Matos, President of the National Immigration Law Center (NILC). As the nation grapples with the aftermath of a defining presidential election, they discuss the heightened anxiety and despair felt by immigrant communities and their allies.

Kica shares insights into NILC’s preparedness in facing the anticipated challenges posed by the new administration. She emphasizes the importance of solidarity, resistance, and the collective fight for justice and democracy. The episode explores the complexities of immigration issues, the significance of a pathway to citizenship, and the economic contributions of immigrants.

Listeners are encouraged to stand in solidarity, get involved with local immigrant rights organizations, and support NILC’s efforts through volunteering and donations. Together, we can protect our communities and uphold the values of justice and humanity.

Join host Victoria Ballesteros as she welcomes the legendary Cheech Marin to the NILC Freedom to Thrive Podcast. In this engaging episode, Cheech shares fond memories of his childhood, his family’s influence on his comedic career, and the origin of his iconic nickname. Dive deep into Cheech’s trailblazing journey as a comedian, musician, actor, and art collector, and explore how he has continuously pushed boundaries and defied expectations.

Discover the enduring legacy of Cheech and Chong, and hear about Cheech’s personal connection to the Chicano movement, the inspiration behind his 1987 film “Born in East LA,” and the establishment of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art and Culture. Through captivating anecdotes, Cheech reflects on the importance of art in social justice movements and the power of comedy to spark change and build bridges.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation about identity, heritage, and the transformative role of art and culture in shaping narratives and creating a more inclusive future. Tune in to hear how Cheech Marin’s legacy continues to inspire and empower generations to come.

In this captivating episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros sits down with NASA astronaut John Daniel “Danny” Olivas, the first person of Mexican-American heritage to walk in space. Together, they explore the age-old human fascination with space, touching on how ancient cultures worshipped lunar and solar deities, and how the stars have guided explorers through history.

Danny shares his inspiring journey from a starry-eyed kid in West Texas to becoming a U.S. astronaut, offering a glimpse into the rigorous path that led him to fly missions on the Space Shuttle Atlantis and Discovery. They discuss the challenges of spacewalking, the awe-inspiring view of Earth from space, and the humbling perspective it provides on human borders and shared humanity.

Listen as Danny delves into his family heritage, the influence of his great-grandfather’s immigration story, and how it shaped his commitment to diversity and inclusion. The episode also highlights the Space for Everyone Foundation, co-founded by Danny and his wife, Marie, aiming to support legal immigration pathways and family unity.

Join the conversation to discover the profound connections between space exploration, cultural heritage, and the shared human experience.

Join host Victoria Ballesteros on the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast as she delves into the untold stories of immigrants beyond the common narratives. In this episode, Victoria welcomes Dr. Felecia Russell, a Jamaican-born, American-raised researcher, author, and advocate for Black immigrants. Together, they explore the vibrant and diverse experiences of immigrants, challenging the often one-dimensional portrayal in the media.

Dr. Russell shares her own journey from Jamaica to the U.S., highlighting the challenges and triumphs she faced as an undocumented student. Her work focuses on elevating the voices of Black immigrants, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their unique experiences and contributions. Through her book “Amplifying Black Undocumented Student Voices in Higher Education,” Dr. Russell sheds light on the complexities of identity and belonging for Black undocumented students.

Discover how Dr. Russell is changing the narrative by centering Black immigrant voices and advocating for policy changes. Learn about the misconceptions surrounding Black immigrants and how allies can support this community. This episode is a call to action to embrace diverse narratives and amplify marginalized voices in the ongoing conversation about immigration and social justice.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive Podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros sits down with the multitalented performing artist, writer, comedian and activist, Kristina Wong. From her early days at UCLA to becoming a Pulitzer Prize finalist, Kristina’s journey is as unconventional as it is inspiring.

Listen in as Kristina shares anecdotes about her eclectic career, from her satirical website “Big Bad Chinese Mama” to her impactful work with undocumented Americans and formerly incarcerated individuals. Discover the origins of the Auntie Sewing Squad, a grassroots initiative born out of the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it led to her critically acclaimed show, “Kristina Wong, Sweatshop Overlord.”

Victoria and Kristina explore the intersectionality of Kristina’s activism, her upcoming projects, and her thoughts on the importance of community and storytelling. This episode is a testament to how creativity and activism can come together to create powerful change.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros sits down with four-time Emmy Award-winning comedian, author, and filmmaker W. Kamau Bell.

Kamau shares insights from his extensive career, including his experiences from his acclaimed CNN show “United Shades of America.” Victoria and Kamau discuss the importance of empathy, curiosity, and listening in bridging divides, as well as Kamau’s latest projects, including the East Bay Film Collective and his Emmy Award-winning documentary “1000% Me: Growing Up Mixed.”

Tune in to hear Victoria and Kamau’s discussion about the intersection of immigration and systemic racism, the power of storytelling, and the need for solidarity among marginalized communities. Join us for an engaging and enlightening conversation that challenges us to find our compassion and shared humanity.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive Podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros engages in conversation with acclaimed writer and storyteller, Karla Cornejo Villavicencio. Karla, an immigrant from Ecuador and Harvard graduate, is reshaping the narrative around immigrants in America through her powerful works “The Undocumented Americans,” and “Catalina.”

In this episode, Karla shares her journey as a writer, the inspiration behind her books, and the importance of telling immigrant stories with authenticity and humanity. Discover how Karla’s personal experiences and defiance against stereotypes fuel her mission to ensure that the histories and contributions of immigrants are recognized and remembered.

Listen as Karla and Victoria discuss the challenges and rewards of being a storyteller, the complexities of immigrant identities, and the critical role of narratives in shaping our understanding of immigration. Tune in to explore how Karla’s writing not only captures the essence of immigrant life but also inspires future generations to continue this vital tradition.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros sits down with Kika Matos, President of the National Immigration Law Center.

Kica Matos is a social justice advocate, lawyer, and national immigrant rights leader. Kica gets to the heart of America’s immigration issues, sharing personal stories and professional insights.

From the historical context of immigration laws to the human resilience Kica witnessed firsthand at the border, this episode sheds light on the urgent need for reform and the incredible work being done to support immigrant communities.

Tune in as we explore the past, present, and future of immigration in the United States, and highlight the ongoing fight for justice and dignity for all.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros delves into a heartfelt conversation with internationally acclaimed Filipinx chef and author, Chef Angel Dimayuga.

Chef Angel is a culinary trailblazer with accolades such as the James Beard Foundation Award and Zagat 30 Under 30. Chef Angel discusses discusses their journey from a young, ambitious cook to a renowned chef. Chef Angel explores the role of food in storytelling, preserving culture, and creating community, while sharing personal anecdotes and insights from their immigrant upbringing and Filipinx heritage.

Discover how Chef Angel’s book, “Filipinx, Heritage Recipes from the Diaspora,” brings the flavors of their homeland to kitchens everywhere, offering accessible recipes for cooks of all skill levels.

Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about the profound connection between food and heritage, and hear Chef Angel’s vision for a more inclusive and joyful society, the important role of immigrants in the culinary industry, and the power of food as a universal language.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros explores the powerful intersection of music and social justice with special guest, Hector Flores, co-founder of the band Las Cafeteras.

Join us as Hector shares his journey from social justice organizer to musician, highlighting the inspiration behind songs like “Caravana,” “Vivas Nos Queremos,” and “La Bamba Rebelde.” Discover how his music serves as a voice for immigrant communities and a call to action for listeners everywhere.

Hector discusses the importance of telling stories of love, loss, and resilience within immigrant families, and the role music plays in changing perceptions and encouraging activism. He also reflects on the responsibility of artists to create spaces of joy and unity, and his hopes for reaching both immigrant communities and broader audiences.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of music, the need for more artists to address social justice issues, and a heartfelt poem from Hector to close out the episode.

Don’t miss this compelling episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast. Subscribe today to stay updated on future episodes and join us in continuing the conversation on immigration and justice.

Join Victoria Ballesteros, Executive Vice President of Narrative at the National Immigration Law Center, as she introduces NILC’s Freedom to Thrive podcast. This series is dedicated to building power for pro-immigrant narratives, one story at a time.

Each episode features insightful conversations with immigrant rights leaders, cultural tastemakers, performing artists, and immigrants sharing their impactful stories and truths. Discover bold visions for immigration, the intersection of art and culture, and the unifying power of shared experiences.

Stay connected and up to date by subscribing or signing up for updates at freedomtothrive.com or nilc.org