Episodes
All Episodes

Apr 16, 2025
Apr 16, 2025
1 hr 13 min
Wine:2020 Zinfandel, Vinos UnidosEpisode Description:Dr. Lauren Frances Guerra, a Guatemalan-Ecuadorian scholar, professor, and theologian is breaking barriers in academia and religious studies. Pour yourself a glass and join us for an intimate conversation exploring the intersection of Latinx identity, faith traditions, and social justice through the lens of Dr. Guerra's personal and professional journey.Guest Bio:Dr. Lauren Frances Guerra is a Guatemalan-Ecuadorian scholar and professor at UCLA's César E. Chávez Department of Chicana/o Studies and Central American Studies. With a doctorate in Systematic and Philosophical Theology from the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, she approaches academia through the lenses of race, class, and gender. Her research focuses on U.S. Latinx religion, Theological Aesthetics, and Central American Studies. Dr. Guerra also hosts the "Gold Hoops & God" podcast, available on all major platforms and YouTube.Episode Highlights:
Dr. Guerra shares her experience growing up in Los Angeles within her Guatemalan-Ecuadorian cultural heritage
The pivotal moments that shaped her academic journey toward theological studies
How her Catholic faith intersects with her commitment to social justice
The significance of popular religion and community-based art in Latinx communities
Challenges and breakthroughs as a Latina woman in theological academia
The inspiration behind her "Gold Hoops & God" podcast
How her research serves as advocacy for U.S. Latinx communities
Practical ways listeners can support diversity in religious and academic spaces
Resources Mentioned:
Dr. Guerra's podcast: "Gold Hoops & God" (available on all major platforms)
UCLA César E. Chávez Department of Chicana/o Studies
Connect With Our Guest:
Instagram: @goldhoops_god
Website: www.drlaurenguerra.com
"Gold Hoops & God" podcast: [link]
Support Wine & Chisme:Love what you heard? Subscribe, rate, and review Wine & Chisme on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on Instagram @thewineandchisme and check out our directory of Latiné-owned wine brands at www.thewineandchismepodcast.com.Credits:Host: Jessica YañezGuest: Dr. Lauren Frances Guerra© 2025 Wine & Chisme Podcast. All rights reserved.

Apr 9, 2025

Apr 2, 2025
Apr 2, 2025
24 min
In this episode, Jessica sits down with Bob from Vinos Unidos at the historic Charleston in downtown Fullerton—a former 1920s speakeasy with beautiful exposed brick walls and vintage ambiance.Episode Highlights:
Bob shares exciting news about Vinos Unidos' new wine releases, including several that haven't even hit the market yet
Tasting and discussion of four distinctive wines:
Amistad Sauvignon Blanc: A fruity wine with guava notes that Bob describes as a perfect "porch pounder" for summer gatherings with friends
Anhelo Chardonnay: A 2023 release with balanced butterscotch notes and brightness from partial stainless steel aging
Jauregui Merlot: A Dry Creek (Sonoma) Merlot that Jessica champions as underrated and delicious
Teberdot: A Russian River red that impressed Jessica with its perfect dry finish
Bob discusses Vinos Unidos' winemaking philosophy of letting the fruit shine without over-oaking
News about their partnership with Escalon Cellars in Napa for appointment-only tastings
Announcement of a new tasting opportunity coming to Solace in Old Town Orange in about six weeks, where they'll offer tastings plus wine by the glass and bottle
Insights into limited production (just 50 cases of some wines) and their approach of creating small batches of many different wines
Wine Pairing Suggestions:
Amistad Sauvignon Blanc with Oaxaca cheese, queso fresco dishes, and green sauce enchiladas
The reds would pair beautifully with smoked meats like tri-tip
Coming Soon:
New rosé bottling on March 27
Possible Pinot Reserve release
More information about their Orange County tasting room to be announced
For more information visit www.vinosunidos.com

Mar 26, 2025
Mar 26, 2025
1 hr 12 min
Wine Featured: Honrama Cellars, 2019 Cabernet SauvignonShow Notes🔥 Hot Topics Breakdown:1. Legal Drama: Blake Lively vs. Justin Baldoni2. Love Wins: Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco3. Hailey Bieber: The 7-Part Viral Series Breakdown4. Bad Bunny's Calvin Klein Moment5. And so much more!Connect with UsInstagram: @thewineandchismeWebsite: www.thewineandchismepodcast.com

Mar 19, 2025
Mar 19, 2025
1 hr 35 sec
Wine Featured: Episode Description:In this episode, Jessica sits down with Cristina Escobar, a powerful voice at the intersection of race, gender, and pop culture. As co-founder and editor-in-chief of Latina Media Co, Cristina has dedicated her career to amplifying Latina and queer Latinx perspectives in media. Over wine and conversation, they explore Cristina's journey as a writer, critic, and advocate for authentic representation in film and television.What You'll Hear:
Cristina's path to becoming a respected media critic and founding Latina Media Co
The current state of Latina representation in Hollywood and where improvement is needed
How living in Santa Fe influences her perspective as a cultural critic
The challenges and triumphs of building an independent publication focused on underrepresented voices
Actionable advice for emerging Latina writers and critics
About Our Guest:Cristina Escobar is a writer, speaker, and critic whose work examines the portrayal of Latinas in film and television. As the co-founder and editor-in-chief of Latina Media Co, she has created a vital platform for diverse Latinx perspectives. A TEDx speaker and Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic, Cristina's insightful analysis appears regularly in publications like Roger Ebert, the A.V. Club, Glamour, and Vulture. She serves on the board of the Latino Entertainment Journalists Association and is a member of the Critics Choice Association.

Mar 12, 2025
Mar 12, 2025
52 min
WINEPARRA WINE CO, 2023 VINO BLANCOThis week, Jessica sits down with Hannelyn Perez, the innovative force behind SpeechBuddy – a groundbreaking platform transforming how we approach language and communication skills development.Hannelyn's Journey
First-generation Latina experience and the values that shaped her path
Military service and how her veteran experience influences her leadership style
Her calling to speech pathology and identifying gaps in accessibility
Balancing cultural heritage with professional ambitions
The Birth of SpeechBuddy
The "aha moment" that led to creating a patent-pending technology
Transforming screen time from passive entertainment to educational empowerment
The challenges of navigating the tech startup landscape as a Latina founder
Building a product with both free and premium versions to ensure accessibility
Speech Pathology Through a Cultural Lens
How cultural backgrounds influence communication needs and approaches
Creating inclusive solutions that work across diverse communities
The Partner Program empowering fellow speech pathologists
Addressing language barriers that often prevent families from accessing needed services
Meeting Communities Where They Are
Hannelyn's mission to make quality speech therapy accessible to underserved populations
Leveraging technology to overcome time and resource limitations
The importance of culturally competent communication tools
Looking to the Future
Expansion plans for SpeechBuddy
Vision for revolutionizing speech therapy accessibility
Advice for other Latina entrepreneurs entering the tech and healthcare space
How listeners can support the mission and access SpeechBuddy resources
Connect with Hannelyn
Website: GetSpeechBuddy.com
Instagram: @GetSpeechBuddy
The Wine & Chisme Podcast celebrates the diverse journeys of professionals, artists, and changemakers across communities of color. Join host Jessica Yañez for unfiltered conversations about career, culture, and transformation—all paired with exceptional wine and authentic chisme.

Mar 5, 2025
Mar 5, 2025
15 min
Join Jessica and Luis as they recap their wine tasting experience at The Rose, a women owned wine tasting room in South Park San Diego.

Feb 26, 2025
Feb 26, 2025
1 hr 34 min
Wine Featured2019 Cabernet Sauvignon by Honrama Cellars Episode DescriptionPour yourself a glass and join us for this special 5-year anniversary celebration of The Wine & Chisme Podcast! Host Jessica Yañez and special guest Erika Sanchez take listeners on a journey through five years of unforgettable conversations, community building, and culture celebration. From humble beginnings in a San Diego apartment to creating the first comprehensive directory of Latiné-owned wine brands in the United States, this episode is filled with behind-the-scenes stories, favorite moments, and valuable lessons learned along the way.In This Episode- Jessica reflects on the first-ever Wine & Chisme recording and how her vision for the podcast has evolved- The unexpected challenges and triumphs of building a platform for marginalized voices- Erika and Jessica reminisce about their favorite guest interviews and the conversations that changed them- Behind-the-scenes stories from Wine & Chisme live events across the country- The impact of creating the first directory of Latiné-owned wine brands and changing the narrative in the wine industry- Heartwarming listener stories that remind Jessica why she started this journey- Life lessons learned from five years of authentic storytelling and community buildingConnect With UsInstagram: @thewineandchismeWebsite: thewineandchismepodcast.comEmail: hola@thewineandchismepodcast.comSupport the ShowLove what you hear? Help us continue amplifying diverse voices:- Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts- Share your favorite episodes with friends- Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content and first access to announcementsSpecial ThanksA heartfelt thank you to our listeners, guests, and supporters who have made these five years possible. ¡Salud to five more years of wine, chisme, and authentic storytelling!

Feb 19, 2025
Feb 19, 2025
58 min
Featured Wine2013 Merlot, Herencia del ValleIn this powerful episode, Jessica sits down with Carrie Peralta, a former technical recruiter turned career strategist who's on a mission to help Latina professionals claim their rightful place in the tech industry. Over glasses of wine and authentic conversation, they explore how women of color can transform their unique perspectives into professional superpowers.Episode HighlightsAfter two transformative decades recruiting talent for tech giants like Netflix, Google, and Verizon, Carrie shares invaluable insights on:- Navigating the complex landscape of tech recruitment and what really happens behind the scenes when companies make hiring decisions- How Latina professionals can leverage their cultural background and lived experiences as strengths in the workplace- Breaking through imposter syndrome and building unshakeable confidence in predominantly white and male tech spaces- Practical strategies for salary negotiation and getting paid what you're truly worth- The importance of understanding your unique value proposition and how to communicate it effectivelyKey TakeawaysThrough candid discussion, Carrie reveals how her own journey from technical recruiter to empowerment coach led her to discover her true calling: helping other Latinas reach their Peak State in their careers. She emphasizes that success isn't just about technical skills—it's about embracing your authentic self and turning perceived differences into distinctive advantages.Where to Find CarrieWant to learn more about reaching your Peak State? Connect with Carrie:Instagram @carrienmiaWebsite www.peakstatecoaching.comConnect With UsJoin the conversation and be part of our community:- Follow @thewineandchisme on Instagram- Subscribe to The Wine & Chisme Podcast- Visit www.thewineandchisme.com to explore our directory of Latiné-owned wine brands

Feb 12, 2025
Feb 12, 2025
58 min
WINE: 2019 SOL TIERRA BY SEIS SOLES WINEJoin us for an inspiring conversation with media powerhouse Honey German, who's making waves at iHeart Media's Power 105.1 and breaking ground with her podcast on the 'My Cultura' Network. Honey shares her journey as a Dominican-American woman navigating the media landscape and creating spaces for authentic representation.Episode HighlightsIn this heartfelt conversation, Honey opens up about:- Her path to becoming a beloved voice on New York's Power 105.1 and how she brings her authentic self to broadcasting- The importance of mentorship and her commitment to nurturing the next generation through Power 105.1's internship program- Her advocacy work for Women of Color, and Immigrants' Rights- Balancing roles as a radio personality, podcast host, event host, and news correspondent while staying true to her rootsDiscover how Honey's magnetic personality and trend-setting style have not only won her a dedicated following but also made her a trusted voice for brands and listeners alike.Connect with Honey GermanInstagram: @iamhoneygermanPodcast: Gracias, Come AgainThe Wine & Chisme Podcast celebrates the stories of trailblazers who are reshaping culture and creating positive change in their communities. Pour yourself a glass and join us for this unforgettable conversation!

Feb 5, 2025
Feb 5, 2025
53 min
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

Dec 18, 2024
Dec 18, 2024
1 hr 17 min
Wine: Special Tasting ExperienceDuring 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 HighlightsIn 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 ProfileJulissa 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 CareJulissa shares the inspiring story behind her skincare brand, Republica Skin:Inspiration: Born from years of searching for the perfect body treatmentMission: Celebrating Dominican heritage through skincarePhilosophy: "Our skin tells a sweet story of our roots"Approach: Clean bodycare inspired by natureTagline: 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 beautyKey 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 storyConnect with JulissaInstagramRepublica Skin Care Website: republicaskin.com*Recorded at Seis Soles Wine Tasting Room, Downtown Orange, CA*

Dec 11, 2024
Dec 11, 2024
1 hr 12 min
Wine: Seis Soles White Wine BlendGet 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 bossGuest Spotlight: Arivee VargasWho She Is: Lawyer, executive coach, podcast host, and soon-to-be author who's been featured everywhere from Oprah Daily to ForbesClaim to Fame: LinkedIn Top Thought Leadership Voice (2024) and basically the person you want in your corner when life gets complicatedQuotable Moments (Prepare to Screenshot!)"Success isn't about fitting in—it's about standing out and owning your story." - Arivee VargasConnect & FollowInstagram: @AriveeVargasBook "Your Time to Rise" (Coming January 2025)Website: AriveeVargas.comPodcast: Humble Rising

Dec 4, 2024
Dec 4, 2024
1 hr 18 min
Tasting flights: RESERVE : SPARKLING ROSÉ, SAUVIGNON BLANC-SEMILLON, PINOT NOIR, SCIELO TINTOSCIELO: SAUVIGNON BLANC, RIESLING ,SCIELITO LINDO, SPARKLING MERLOTSEPTEMBER: SCIELO CHARDONNAY, SCIELO ROSÉ, SKIN-CONTACT GEWÜRZTRAMINER, DIA DE LOS MUERTOS MALBECWine 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 visionWebsite: https://www.rgnywine.com/Instagram

Nov 27, 2024
Nov 27, 2024
1 hr 14 min
Wine: UnknownJoin 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.