First Generation Programming Services
Welcome back, First Gens! Two weeks ago, we talked about this month’s theme, Money Shame as a First Gen, and the impact this has on our lives. We talked about the weight money can carry on us, especially with expectations from our families. This week, we continue the conversation with special guest, Carlos Martin!
Carlos is the co-founder of Continuum Leaders and is a certified executive coach. What drives Carlos the most is helping people change the way they see themselves. Because of this, Carlos is a disruptor for positive change. He believes in the power of transforming our personal narratives, our identities, and the way we think about what is possible. He challenges people to rewrite their stories and step into roles of greater impact and influence. Overall, his personal why is to be the coach he needed many years ago, and now he gets to be that person for others.
Money Shame
In this episode, Carlos shares his story of immigrating from Mexico at the age of 11. He describes entering a new country without knowing the language, and without cultural familiarity or a sense of belonging. That early experience of knowing he lacked things shaped not only how he viewed himself, but also how he approached money throughout his life. When it comes to money, like many first gens, financial conversations were nonexistent at home. Money was felt through stress, silence, and struggle, but it was rarely ever talked about.
In our conversation, he tells us about how his relationship with money changed as he got older and began to earn more. He began spending to prove his worth, and he felt guilt for having more than others. His mindset really shifted when he learned about financial literacy and the power of money.
Carlos Martin
This episode is powerful because we often feel this sense of the pressure to stay small after being the one that made it. There also comes the pressure to give back and to support your family. This is so relevant for our first-generation experience! When you grow up in survival mode, it’s hard to believe in abundance, even when you start to experience it. You may question it and wonder if you’re even allowed to have it.
Remember that healing your relationship with money isn’t just about how much you make or save. It’s about rewriting the story you tell yourself. Remind yourself that you are not living the same life you grew up living. You’re allowed to learn, to invest, to take risks, to build something of your own. Remember, your Madrina is always in your corner!
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!
