Shows
Growth on the RocksEmpowering Women in Film: The Mirala Journey with Arianna LemusIn this episode of Growth on the Rocks, Desiree welcomes Arianna Lemus, writer, producer, and founder of the Mirala Film Festival. The conversation explores Ariana's journey in the film industry, her passion for empowering women and people of color in storytelling, and the mission behind the Mirala Film Festival. They discuss the importance of representation in film, the changing landscape of the industry with the rise of streaming platforms, and the significance of creativity in mental health. The episode concludes with reflections on personal growth, aspirations for the future, and the impact of pageantry on their lives.
2026-02-1549 min
MíraLA PodcastMíraLA Podcast #30: The Producers’ EditMíraLA Podcast #30: The Producers’ EditMíraLA Podcast: The Producers’ Edit is a special behind-the-scenes conversation on growth, community and all things MíraLA. Host Arianna Lemus, who leads the podcast with intention and a deep focus on relationship-building and storytelling, is joined by longtime producer Brenda Hernández, who has served as producer, editor, and camera operator, shaping the podcast’s production, structure, and brand.In this candid Producers’ Edit, Arianna and Brenda reflect on the past, present, and future of MíraLA — from the evolution of the podcast to the growth of the MíraLA Film...
2025-12-2954 min
MíraLA PodcastMíraLA Podcast #29: Danitza Borges — CEO, Mother, & ProtectorIn this episode, Arianna sits down with Danitza, a former Correctional Officer turned educator, author, and tech founder, to explore what it means to protect people and preserve truth.From working in a Protective Custody Unit to earning a PhD in Human Sexuality, Danitza shares how trauma, empathy, and lived experience shaped her path. She opens up about her book Left Vulnerable, her work as a mother and leader, and her latest venture, ELYS, a startup redefining safety and legacy through compassionate technology.This conversation is about courage, humanity, and making sure what matters most...
2025-12-2349 min
MíraLA PodcastMíraLA Podcast #28: Virginia Novello — Actress, Writer, Producer & Tantric CoachThis week, Arianna Lemus sits down with Virginia Novello — a Mexican actress, writer, producer, and tantric coach whose work bridges storytelling, spirituality, and feminine empowerment. She is the co-creator, writer, and star of Las Tres Sisters, a Latinx female-driven feature film premiering theatrically this January.Beyond film, Virginia is the founder of Sacred Alquimia, where she teaches tantra and holotropic breathwork, facilitates retreats and workshops, and hosts Orgasmica, her podcast exploring sexuality, creativity, and healing.In this conversation, Virginia opens up about the journey of making Las Tres Sisters, the spiritual practices that have shaped he...
2025-12-1556 min
MíraLA PodcastMíraLA Podcast #27: KÉO — Multi-Hyphenate Artist & ProducerMíraLA Podcast #27: KÉO — Artist, Producer & Multi-Hyphenate Voice Shaping Modern R&BThis week, Arianna Lemus sits down with KÉO — an R&B/Pop artist, producer, songwriter, audio engineer, and Recording Academy member redefining what modern soul sounds like. Her music has been featured across major shows including Queer Eye, All American, Project Runway, and That Girl Lay Lay, and she helped shape Barbie’s global rebrand with powerful, uplifting anthems heard around the world.In this conversation, KÉO shares the journey behind her multifaceted artistry — from producing her own tracks to collaboratin...
2025-12-011h 03
MíraLA Podcast🎙️ MíraLA Podcast #26: Natalie Aguilar — Founder of Nine GlowThis week, Arianna Lemus sits down with Natalie Aguilar, founder of Nine Glow, the skincare brand made for people who train hard and glow harder. A former ISSA personal trainer, Natalie turned her own gym struggles into a mission to create skincare that moves with you. Nine Glow was born from real experience and a simple truth: active people need active skincare.In this conversation, Natalie opens up about her evolution from trainer to entrepreneur, the self-discipline that fuels her work, and why Nine Glow is more than skincare — it’s a celebration of movement, wellness, and the...
2025-11-2431 min
MíraLA Podcast🎙️ MíraLA Podcast #25: Selina Ringel — Award-Winning Filmmaker & AuthorThis week, host Arianna Lemus sits down with Selina Ringel, an award-winning Mexican-American filmmaker whose bold storytelling and relentless creative drive have made her a standout voice in independent cinema. As a writer, producer, and actress, she’s built a body of work that pushes boundaries and resonates across communities.Her latest feature film, You, Me & Her, earned 15 awards and premiered in 250 theaters nationwide as the Alpha test for Fithian Group’s innovative distribution platform, Attend. The film was later acquired by Starz, and is now streaming on Starz, Amazon, and Apple TV.Beyond the scre...
2025-11-1739 min
MíraLA Podcast MíraLA Podcast #24: Yahaira Kolb – Entrepreneur & Beauty Industry VisionaryThis week, host Arianna Lemus sits down with Yahaira Kolb, a visionary Latina entrepreneur whose legacy in beauty began generations ago. From mastering her craft behind the salon chair to building a renowned luxury salon and wellness medspa, Yahaira has made it her mission to help women feel confident, radiant, and seen.Her journey extends beyond beauty—she’s also a savvy real estate investor and mentor, guiding other women to build wealth, embrace independence, and dream bigger. In this conversation, Yahaira opens up about the lessons, challenges, and mindset that shaped her path as a businesswoman and...
2025-11-1039 min
MíraLA Podcast MíraLA Podcast #23: Dr. Brenda Gálvez – Founder of Latina HustleThis week, we’re joined by Dr. Brenda Gálvez, a distinguished first-generation Latina whose work centers on building community, self-advocacy, and social and economic mobility. As the founder of Latina Hustle, Dr. Gálvez has dedicated her career to creating access and opportunity for under-represented communities - bridging local government, educational institutions, and professional industries to uplift the next generation of Latina leaders.With expertise in designing culturally competent, person-centered career programs, Dr. Gálvez empowers individuals to not only pursue careers that align with their goals but to confidently navigate and thrive within them.In...
2025-11-0344 min
MíraLA PodcastMíraLA Podcast #22: Diana González – Founder of Cactus FoodsThis week, we’re joined by Diana González, the visionary founder of Cactus Foods, a woman-owned snack brand turning the cactus (nopal) into delicious and sustainable plant-based snacks. While managing a diagnosis of Hashimoto’s and inspired by her family’s history of colon cancer, Diana embarked on a journey to create healthier snack options — blending her nearly two decades of sales and marketing experience (including at NBC/Universal) with a passion for wellness and innovation.Diana’s mission is to transform cacti — nature’s wonder — into snacks that are as good for the planet as they are for you...
2025-10-2730 min
MíraLA PodcastMiraLA Podcast #21 : Gina Zapanta, Esq. - Attorney, Advocate & Community LeaderThis week, we’re joined by Gina Zapanta, a powerhouse attorney, entrepreneur, and community advocate committed to empowering others through law, leadership, and authenticity. A proud daughter of East L.A., Gina brings her full self to every space she steps into — from the courtroom to community boards to mentorship circles.She’s the Co-Founder of Z.A. Lawyers, ZAGives, and Empowered with Gina, a platform where she shares real and raw insights on success, resilience, and redefining legacy.In this episode, Arianna sits down with Gina to talk about staying rooted in your mission, naviga...
2025-10-2036 min
MíraLA PodcastMiraLA Podcast #20 : Daniela Inés Calvo - Comedian & Producer of Comedia en EspañolThis week, we’re joined by Daniela Inés Calvo, a bilingual stand-up comedian raised in Miami and Argentina, now based in Los Angeles. Daniela began performing at 19 and has since brought her comedy to stages across LA and Miami. She is also the producer of the regular stand-up show en español at The World Famous Comedy Store, where she co-headlines with Francisco Ramos and features surprise guests.In this episode, Arianna sits down with Daniela to discuss carving out space for comedy in español, the intersections of culture and humor, and the power of creat...
2025-10-0633 min
MíraLA PodcastMiraLA Podcast #19 : Sky Rodríguez - Pro Footballer (Cruz Azul Femenil & Puerto Rico WNT)Welcome to Season 2 of the MíraLA Podcast! We’re kicking off with professional footballer Sky Rodríguez.Sky Rodríguez is a professional footballer who plays for Cruz Azul Femenil in Liga MX Femenil and proudly represents the Puerto Rico Women’s National Team. As one of the rising voices in women’s football, she embodies resilience, identity, and community both on and off the pitch.In this episode, Arianna sits down with Sky to talk about her journey in professional sports, balancing identity, mental health, and visibility as a Latina athlete, and the importanc...
2025-09-2930 min
The Ana Cruz ShowThe Untold Truth of Miss Universe and the Film Industry - Arianna LemusIn this week’s episode of Rollos de Mujeres Podcast, we sit down with Arianna Lemus to discuss her bold decision to step away from her Miss Colorado USA crown and why she doesn’t encourage young women to participate in Miss Universe. Arianna shares her perspective on the challenges women—especially minorities—face in the beauty pageant industry and why she chose to use her platform to advocate for more meaningful representation. She also opens up about her personal journey, the lessons she has learned, and how this experience has shaped her mission to uplif...
2025-03-1156 min
MíraLA PodcastSpecial Guest: Debby Wolfe: Showrunner, Writer & Creator of Lopez vs. LopezWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Special Guest Edition: Arianna interviews Debby Wolfe. She is the creator, writer, showrunner, and executive producer of Lopez Vs. Lopez. The show is currently in it’s 3rd season with the season finale coming this Friday, February 7th at 8:30 pm ET/PT on NBC.About Executive Producer, “Lopez vs. Lopez” Debby WolfeDebby Wolfe is the showrunner and an executive producer on the new NBC comedy “Lopez vs. Lopez.” Wolfe’s other credits...
2025-02-0620 min
MíraLA Podcast#18: Adriana Zuniga: Chicana Business Owner & EntrepreneurWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 18: This week, Arianna interviews Adriana Zúñiga. Adriana is a 36 year old Chicana, born and raised in the San Fernando Valley. She is a mother of 3 girls (and an adorable Frenchie) and spouse to her partner, Jesse. Adriana talks about her experience of being a business owner during the pandemic, the positive impact of community and loyal customers and the legacy she is creating as a Latina business owner. About Cara Vana: Car...
2024-12-3031 min
MíraLA Podcast#17: Patty Ortiz: Latina Aerospace EngineerWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 17: This week, Arianna interviews Patty Ortiz. Patty is an aerospace engineer and project manager for NASA. In this episode, Patty talks about the road to NASA, her experience with Post Partum Psychosis Episode and her mental health journey. As a project manager for Space Projects and Partnerships at NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, Patty manages various space and aeronautics projects for new technologies that begin from the early sta...
2024-12-2333 min
MíraLA Podcast#16: Aaricka Washington: Multimedia Award-Winning JournalistWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 16: This week, Arianna interviews Aaricka Washington, a multimedia, community-driven award-winning journalist based in Los Angeles. Most recently, she worked as an associate editor and reporter at LAist, a local NPR station, where she developed strategies and collaborated on stories for the daily podcast, How To LA. Aaricka grew a loyal, engaged audience through various forms of impactful, captivating multimedia storytelling. She is a former teacher who has a passion for reporting stories t...
2024-12-1630 min
MíraLA Podcast#15: Tamika Lewis, LCSW: WOC House FounderWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 15: Arianna interviews Tamika Lewis, LCSW. Tamika is a licensed therapist, visionary leader, advocate for mental health and women of color and a single mother of two beautiful children. Her work is deeply rooted in the belief that mental health care should honor and reflect the diverse lived experiences of women of color, fostering healing and growth in an inclusive and supportive environment. Her mission is to create a world where women of color feel s...
2024-12-0930 min
MíraLA Podcast#14: Jocelyn Rivas: Indigenous Latina Warrior Welcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 14: Arianna interviews Jocelyn Rivas. Jocelyn is an Indigenous Latina, ultra-marathoner, 2x 100 miler finisher and 124 marathon finisher. In this episode, Jocelyn talks about her running journey and the importance of representation on the course.Jocelyn was born in El Salvador with a broken back, neck and feet with very little chance of her ever walking. She eventually healed, migrated to the U.S. and discovered running at the age of 16. Jocelyn is now a...
2024-12-0223 min
MíraLA Podcast#13: Sabbyiana: Proud Lesbian Latina Drag QueenWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 13: Arianna interviews Sabbyiana (she/her). Sabbyiana is a Lesbian, Latina Drag Queen born and raised in Montebello. In this episode, Sabbyiana talks about her journey with PMDD, being a cisgender lesbian woman in the drag scene and her humble beginnings, her drag accomplishments & coming out in a “non-traditional” kind of way.Sabbyiana is a full-time drag queen based in Los Angeles, California who has been dazzling audiences since she began her drag journ...
2024-11-2538 min
MíraLA Podcast#12: Alejandra Quiroz: Honduran Filmmaker & Central American Voices Podcast Host Welcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 12: Arianna interviews Alejandra Quiroz. Alejandra Quiroz is a producer, director, and podcast host from Tegucigalpa, Honduras, and currently based in Los Angeles, California. Driven by a passion for amplifying BIPOC voices, she is committed to increasing representation both in front of and behind the camera, with a particular focus on uplifting Central American stories.Alejandra's journey began with a B.A. in Cinema and Television Arts and Central American Studies from Cal S...
2024-11-1831 min
MíraLA Podcast#11: Sara Hanna: Multi-hyphenate Queer Sex Therapist in the MakingWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 11: Arianna interviews Sara Hanna (@gettingspicyy). Sara is a disabled, queer, non-monogamous, neurodivergent Egyptian immigrant currently studying to become a sex therapist. In this episode, Sara talks to Arianna about what led her to explore her sexuality beyond the norms that society has conditioned women to abide by and dives briefly on destigmatizing BDSM and kink. (We will be back for more destigmitization and sex education in season 2)Sara Hanna is a sex t...
2024-11-1131 min
MíraLA Podcast#10: Virginie Drouot: Transformation & Life CoachWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 10: Arianna interviews Virginie Drouot. Virginie is a certified transformation & life coach. In this interview, Virginie talks about growing up in Champagne, France, moving to Los Angeles and the impact of her DreamBuilder courses. Arianna also shares a little bit about her experience with the program.Virginie Drouot is a certified DreamBuilder Coach with the Brave Thinking Institute: The Premiere Training Center for Transformational Coaching. She specializes in helping working professionals build their d...
2024-11-0439 min
MíraLA Podcast#9: Delmy Oro: Spiritual Esthetician & Healer Welcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 9: Arianna interviews Delmy Oro. Delmy is a Spiritual Esthetician, Healer, and Master Manifestor, known for her profound impact in guiding individuals on their healing journeys. In this episode, Delmy, as a first-generation Latina, talks about over a decade of experience as an esthetician with spiritual practices, helping people overcome stagnancy and blockages to achieve their dreams.Founder of Del Oro Beauty and co-owner of Botanica Ache, Delmy offers a unique blend of t...
2024-10-2830 min
MíraLA Podcast#8: Kassandra Gutierrez : Spiritual Life CoachWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 8: Arianna interviews Kassandra Gutierrez. Kassandra was seeking to pursue a career in nursing. After facing the realities of the lack of preventative care, she rerouted her journey to provide her knowledge as a now certified holistic health coach. Her goal is to help people before they head to the hospital. Kassandra talks to us about her healing journey and how she now helps her clients through their own health and healing journeys. K...
2024-10-2136 min
MíraLA Podcast#7: Erika Snyder: PhD STEM Student Welcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 7: Arianna interviews Erika Snyder, a native Angeleno from the San Fernando Valley, who is pursuing her PhD degree at UCSB. Erika talks about her childhood fascination with all things science, coping with grief at a young age, and her resilient and tenacious nature lead her to where she is today. Erika Snyder is a 23-year-old PhD student entering the second year of my PhD in Biomolecular Science and Engineering at UC Santa B...
2024-10-1430 min
MíraLA Podcast#6: Jess Melgar Alvarez: First Generation AttorneyWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 6: Arianna interviews Jess Melgar Alvarez. Jess is a first-generation Latina of Salvadoran descent, born and raised in the San Fernando Valley. In this interview, Jess talks about her journey leading up to her career as an attorney, the adventures of motherhood and the mental struggles we face as women. Jess Melgar Alvarez is a labor and employment attorney that specializes in benefits and union work. Jess earned her undergraduate degrees in English a...
2024-10-0731 min
MíraLA Podcast#5: Monique Flores: Boxing & Mindset Coach Welcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 5: Arianna interviews Monique Flores. Monique is the CEO and Founder of Mija Fitness, a boxing wellness space built for women. In this interview, Monique talks about her passion for boxing and how empowering it can be for women’s healing journeys.Monique Flores is a first generation Mexican-American Queer woman. She founded a women's only boxing fitness company called Mija Fitness in 2021. Mija Fitness champions women not only through boxing, but in the...
2024-09-3032 min
MíraLA Podcast#4: Sahvannah Rae: Filmmaker & Entrepreneur Welcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 4: Arianna interviews Sahvannah Rae, a second generation Mexican American writer and director. In this episode, Sahvannah talks about her experience as a woman filmmaker and entrepreneur and the obstacles she’s had to face while pursuing her dreams. Co-Founder and CEO of Skye Film Studios, Sahvannah Rae is an award winning screenwriter and director. She made her directorial debut in 2018 and has since established her focus on raw, unique, and character-driven films. She...
2024-09-2334 min
MíraLA Podcast#3: Rosa Gomez: Latina MFT TraineeWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 3: Arianna interviews Rosa Gomez, a first gen Angeleno of Salvadoran descent. In this episode, Rosa takes us through her journey of generational healing and what led her to pursuing a career in marriage and family counseling. Rosa Gomez is a first generation Salvadoran-American born and raised in the San Fernando Valley. Rosa is currently pursuing her masters degree in marriage and family therapy. She will be graduating in 2025. Follow her on her j...
2024-09-1633 min
MíraLA Podcast#2: Magybet Mendez: Trailblazing Female Immigrant Welcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.Episode 2: Arianna interviews Magybet Mendez, founder and CEO of the nonprofit, Immigo. During our conversation, we covered the undocumented experience & what inspired her to start her nonprofit.Magybet Mendez is the founder and CEO of Immigo, a non-profit that is devoted to creating programs that cater to the needs of all undocumented individuals. Her goal with Immigo was to create resources she wished existed growing up undocumented. I...
2024-09-0928 min
MíraLA Podcast#1: Josslyn Glenn: Afro-Latina Trans CreativeWelcome to the MíraLA Podcast - a podcast by women, for women and anyone willing to listen. Hosted by Arianna Lemus.For the first episode, Arianna interviews Josslyn Glenn. Josslyn is an Afro-Latina trans woman and a multi-skilled filmmaker and writer. In this episode, we cover topics ranging from trans identity to trans representation in the media. Join us as we celebrate our first podcast episode.Josslyn Glenn is a Los Angeles County-born Belizean and Chicana transgender producer, writer, and film curator dedicated to promoting nuanced representations of queer and trans people of color t...
2024-09-0227 min
c2storiesPageant DramaMiss USA winner Noelia Voigt and Miss Teen USA winner UmaSophia Srivastava unexpectedly stepped down from their roles, citing concerns about the organization's culture and their mental health. Voigt accused the organization of fostering a toxic work environment, bullying, and harassment. Their resignations were coordinated with another prominent figure, Claudia Michelle, who also quit, expressing support for their decisions. Miss Colorado 2023 Arianna Lemus resigned in solidarity, criticizing the exploitative contracts in pageants. Miss Universe, which owns both pageants, released statements respecting the winners' choices. Now, efforts are underway to appoint new titleholders, raising questions about the future of Miss...
2024-05-1501 min
Pivot PodcastEpisode 18In this episode, we have Arianna Lemus! Arianna is a philanthropist, entrepreneur, actress, model, and Miss Colorado 2023. Listen to how Arianna started her pageant career at an early age and was a contestant for Miss USA, pivoting into becoming a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and student.
2024-02-1057 min