First Generation Programming Services

Welcome back, First Gens! I hope you’re enjoying your summer and this extra warm weather. This week, I welcome a new special guest Chris Ward Jr. to discuss this month’s theme: Reclaiming Your Story as a First Gen.

Chris is a strategic advisor, international speaker, and creator of the Story-Powered Confidence Method. Through his work, he helps visionary leaders and entrepreneurs transform their lived experiences into powerful stories. These stories help build confidence, strengthen leadership, and create lasting impact. Because of this work, his ability to connect the heart and mind through storytelling made him the perfect guest!

Christopher Ward Jr.

During our conversation, we discussed thinking beyond the traditional definitions of being first gen. While many identify as the first to graduate college or the first born in the United States, Chris encourages us to think about what else it might mean. As Chris shared, maybe we also are the first to pursue our dreams or redefine success on our own terms.

During our conversation, Chris reminds us that our stories and our memories are proof of just how resilient we can be. He shares that every person’s greatest pain can become their greatest motivation. In this episode, we learn that storytelling allows us to connect our experiences with our purpose. Rather than hiding difficult moments, he encourages us to identify the lessons and use them to create meaningful connections.

Reclaim Your Story

In this episode, I also share an important mental health perspective. As a social worker, I remind everyone that many of our stories may be rooted in trauma and intergenerational experiences. It is crucial to process them in safe spaces such as therapy or other forms of healing. Because of this, healing gives us the opportunity to become the authors of our own narratives instead of allowing our past to define us.

No matter who you are or where you are on your journey, let this serve as a reminder that your voice matters. Reclaiming your story isn’t about having the perfect ending. It’s about honoring where you’ve been and using your experiences to support others.

Overall, our stories deserve to be heard. When we reclaim them, we don’t just heal ourselves, we create space for others to do the same.

The First Gen Madrina

The First Gen Madrina is built on three interconnected branches designed to support first-generation students and professionals in wellbeing, wealth, and community:

 Madrina Money focuses on financial wellness through a first-gen lens. This branch supports individuals in unpacking money stories, building sustainable wealth, and gaining the confidence and tools needed to make empowered financial decisions without shame or judgment.

 Madrina Network is dedicated to supporting social work students and professionals. Through resources, coaching, community, and conversations beyond traditional paths, this branch helps social workers navigate burnout, career growth, and non-traditional opportunities while staying aligned with their values.

 Madrina Speaks centers on storytelling, speaking, and education. Through workshops, keynotes, panels, and the podcast, this branch creates space for honest conversations about first-generation experiences, identity, money, and purpose helping individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Together, these branches reflect the heart of The First Gen Madrina: breaking cycles, building confidence, and supporting first-gens as they step into lives of intention, impact, and abundance.

Check out http://thefirstgenmadrina.com for more information!