The First Gen Madrina
The First Gen Madrina Podcast is a podcast for first-generation students, professionals, and cycle-breakers who are navigating life without a blueprint. Hosted by social worker, coach, and The First Gen Madrina Sara, this podcast explores the real conversations we were never taught to have about mental health, money, and navigating systems while building a life that feels aligned and sustainable.
Each episode blends honest storytelling, practical tools, and culturally responsive insights to help you break generational cycles, overcome imposter syndrome, heal burnout, and redefine success on your own terms. Whether we’re unpacking mental wellness, financial empowerment, career growth, or the in-between moments of becoming, you’ll find guidance rooted in compassion, community, and accountability.
The First Gen Madrina
E-49 Mental Health as a First Gen: Rod's Journey
Dear First Gens,
In this episode, host Sara Diaz welcomes Rod Colon to a new episode of the First Gen Madrina Podcast! This gives us a brand new episode for this month's theme, Mental Health as a First Gen!
Rod Colón brings over 25 years of experience coaching and consulting today’s professionals and executives to his role as HISPA's (Hispanics Inspiring Students' Performance and Achievement) Talent Development and Leaders in College Director. In this position, Colón serves as a role model to role models, focusing on the recruitment, retention, and professional development of HISPA volunteers; consulting with partner organizations; and advising on ERG best practices. Rod is also an accomplished author, blogger, and radio talk show host, where he discusses career strategy, professional development, and the need for networking and human relationships as a major part of any job search. He also consults professional groups, colleges and corporate leaders on what it means to run a career in the same way a CEO runs a business.
As a disclaimer, these episodes can be triggering for some individuals that are struggling with mental health concerns. Although Sara is a social worker, these episodes are meant to educate and bring awareness to mental health challenges that we may experience, especially as first gens. She will not be providing any diagnoses. She will only be sharing her personal experience.
For additional support, please reach out to the National Alliance on Mental Illness at 1-800-950-6264. If this is an emergency, please call 911. Please know that there is help out there for you, and you do not have to navigate this alone.
Visit thefirstgenmadrina.com for the blog and additional resources. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe to stay connected. The First Gen Madrina is here to guide you through 2024 and beyond. Also, follow me on instagram and LinkedIn @thefirstgenmadrina and Sara Diaz, LCSW.
Standing in Solidarity With You This May,
Sara, The First Gen Madrina