First Generation Programming Services
Welcome back, First Gens! Today, we’re welcoming a very special guest, Dr. Charleanea Arellano, for this month’s theme, Breaking Cycles as a First Gen. Dr. Charleanea is a psychologist, board-certified coach, transformational self-leadership alchemist, and truth-teller whose work does more than disrupt systems; it dismantles the stories that keep people small. With over 30 years of experience bridging psychology, spirituality, and self-empowerment, she helps others break free from limiting narratives and reconnect with the power that’s always been within them. She reminds us that transformation begins the moment we stop shrinking and step fully into the brilliance we’ve carried all along.
Dr. Charleanea shares what it was like growing up Latina in a mostly white community during desegregation. She talks about how she learned to play small, to blend in, and to not take up too much space. Sound familiar? For so many of us first gens, that pressure to fit in shows up early, and before we know it, we start disconnecting from parts of ourselves just to survive.
Dr. Charleanea
In this episode, she tells us about how she realized that breaking cycles isn’t just about getting degrees or becoming “the first” in your family; it’s about reclaiming yourself. It’s about remembering where you come from, owning your identity, and finding pride in the language, the traditions, and the culture that once made you feel like you had to hide.
Dr. Charleanea calls it self-reclamation, and she says that’s the new revolution. Once you start trusting yourself again, instead of looking outside for validation, everything changes. Of course, it’s not all easy. Breaking cycles comes with a lot of self-doubt, family pushback, and those heavy “am I doing the right thing?” moments. As Dr. Charleanea said so beautifully, the freedom on the other side is worth it. There’s power in choosing yourself1
Breaking Cycles as a First Gen
Her upcoming book, Terrible Gifts: Finding Light in the Darkest of Places, dives deeper into the idea that even the hardest experiences in our lives can become portals to healing and wisdom. Whether she’s on stage, behind the mic, or holding space in session, Dr. Charleanea brings a presence that’s both grounding and electrifying. She’s not here to go along with what’s always been. She’s here to upend assumptions and spark new ways of seeing.
Breaking cycles might not be comfortable, but it’s sacred work. It’s how we honor those who came before us while creating something brighter for those who come after. Check out more about Dr. Charleanea and her work here: https://drcharleanea.com/
The First Gen Madrina
If you are a University, College, Company or Organization, The First Gen Madrina offers workshops on a variety of topics (such as imposter syndrome, time management, managing burnout, building a self-care plan, etc..), custom built mentorship programs as well as customized services tailored to your needs.
In order to follow along, remember to rate, review, and subscribe to The First Gen Madrina Podcast to stay connected. Also, follow on Instagram and LinkedIn @thefirstgenmadrina and Sara Diaz, LCSW. Sara acknowledges that the term first gen can be fluid, so The First Gen Madrina is committed to supporting all first gens! This isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about providing unwavering support that propels individuals to embrace life’s challenges and triumphs.
Also, in case you have missed it, I recently announced a new branch of The First Gen Madrina called The Social Work Madrina. The Social Work Madrina will bring intentional support to social workers and more programming on mental health. Within TSWM, you will find The Madrina Network: A Community for Social Workers!
Our community deserves more support, guidance and resources.
Soooooo are you ready? Here are some highlights of the community!
Monthly zoom calls to discuss the successes, challenges and needs of the social work community.
Opportunity to network with fellow social workers from all over the U.S!
Monthly workshops with different social work-related themes.
Optional coaching time with me for additional support!
Stay tuned in the upcoming weeks for more information! Check out thefirstgenmadrina.com/themadrinanetwork for more information soon!
¡Hasta pronto!
