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. Listen and subscribe to NILC's Freedom to Thrive Podcast series on Podbean: https://freedomtothrive.podbean.com /  Also available on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music, and iHeart Radio.

Join host Héctor Flores of Las Cafeteras in a powerful conversation with Kica Matos, President of the National Immigration Law Center. They explore Kica’s journey from NYC to global activism, the role of music in movement-building, and the deep connection between culture and resistance. Tune in for a heartfelt dialogue on resilience, community, and the ongoing fight for immigrant justice—and discover how you can be part of it.

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.

Our podcast returns amid a national crisis, where immigrant rights—and fundamental freedoms—are under attack. We discuss the impact of Los Angeles fires, the resilience of diverse communities, and the fight against rising extremism. Through activism, art, and dialogue with inspiring guests, we explore how to stand together in defense of democracy.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros talks with Roxanne Coady, founder of R.J. Julia Booksellers and Read to Grow. Roxanne shares how her love for books, inspired by her immigrant father, shaped her journey to creating a bookstore that fosters community and civil dialogue. The conversation explores the transformative power of literature, its role in social justice, and the importance of storytelling in building empathy amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, Victoria Ballesteros discusses the documentary ’Borderland, The Line Within’ with filmmakers Pamela Yates and Paco de Onis, and digital humanist Alex Gil. The film uncovers the hidden border industrial complex affecting communities nationwide. Together, they explore immigrant resilience, the industry’s far-reaching impact, and the urgent need for reform in our country’s immigration policies and narratives.

In this post-election episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros speaks with NILC President Kica Matos about the challenges immigrant communities face following the recent presidential election. Kica shares NILC’s plans for navigating these times, stressing solidarity, resistance, and the fight for justice. They discuss the importance of citizenship pathways and immigrants’ economic contributions. Listeners are encouraged to support immigrant rights through local organizations, volunteering, and donations to NILC, joining the collective effort to protect communities and uphold justice.

Join host Victoria Ballesteros on the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast as she talks with the legendary Cheech Marin. In this episode, Cheech reflects on his childhood, the influence of his family on his comedic career, and the origin of his iconic nickname. Together they explore his journey as a comedian, actor, and art collector, as well as his connection to the Chicano movement and the creation of the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art and Culture. Tune in for a conversation about identity, heritage, and the power of art and comedy to drive social change.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros talks with NASA astronaut John Daniel ”Danny” Olivas, the first Mexican-American to walk in space. They discuss humanity’s fascination with space, Danny’s journey from West Texas to NASA, and the experience of spacewalking. Danny also reflects on his family’s heritage, his great-grandfather’s immigration story, and his commitment to diversity. The episode highlights the Space for Everyone Foundation, which supports immigrant rights and family unity. Tune in to explore the connection between space, culture, and the human experience.

Join host Victoria Ballesteros on the NILC Freedom to Thrive podcast as she talks with Dr. Felecia Russell, a Jamaican-born, American-raised researcher, author, and advocate for Black immigrants. Dr. Russell shares her journey from Jamaica to the U.S. and her work elevating Black immigrant voices, and discusses her book, ”Amplifying Black Undocumented Student Voices in Higher Education.” They also discuss the unique challenges Black immigrants face and how allies can support this community. This episode challenges one-dimensional immigrant narratives and calls for centering marginalized voices.

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. Join us 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, and how it led to her critically acclaimed show, ”Kristina Wong, Sweatshop Overlord.” 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. Join us as Kamau shares insights from his extensive career, including his experiences from his acclaimed CNN show ”United Shades of America,” 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.

In this episode of the NILC Freedom to Thrive Podcast, host Victoria Ballesteros engages in conversation with acclaimed writer and storyteller, Karla Cornejo Villavicencio. Join us as Karla, an immigrant from Ecuador and Harvard graduate, shares her journey as a writer, the inspiration behind her powerful books, ”The Undocumented Americans,” and ”Catalina,” 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.

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 immigrants’ rights leader. Kica gets to the heart of America’s immigration issues, sharing personal stories and professional insights.

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. Join us as 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.

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.

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