Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Martinez.
So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My healing journey began when my husband and I discovered we couldn’t conceive a child naturally. The emotions from depression and anxiety from past traumas were pouring out of me and I had no control. I was so scared and felt so alone. For the first time in my life, I had to question what motherhood meant to me. As a Mexican woman, this was a very difficult thing to face and question. Culturally, I was conditioned to believe that being a mother was my only purpose. Who was I if I wasn’t going to have children? I started my podcast Soy Chingona to connect with others in our community. Soy Chingona quickly became a platform for people of color and allies to use to share their truth, whatever that might be. My brand is now a healing community. I facilitate healing circles using breathwork and journaling exercises to share how I continue to use these tools every day. This spiritual healing journey never ends. I’m not here to say, look at me, I’ve been there done that. I’m here to show you I stand in my power while being vulnerable with my community because vulnerability is my strength.
Has it been a smooth road?
Life isn’t meant to be easy. I’ve had to learn to respect my journey. The good and the bad. I’m grateful for everything in my path, including the painful parts because I’ve been able to create beautiful things from my pain. You don’t have to be a product of your environment. Take the risk of being authentic and trust your instincts. Your instincts are a gift, honor that gift.
Please tell us more about your podcast, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
My slogan for the Soy Chingona podcast is, “We talk about everything tú mama told you not to talk about!” Every subject is on the table. My platform is made for my community and I’m so proud of the storytellers that come on and share their truth. It becomes a part of their healing process and it’s beautiful to watch that unfold. I started my healing circles to help myself connect with more women in our community on a spiritual level. We release the trauma that no longer serves us so we can open our hearts to the gifts of this universe. It’s a very special thing for me. And I absolutely love helping create community markets like Community Connections at Marleez Koffee to help small businesses and local vendors connect.
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
Finding the right support to connect with to help keep women sustainable in their path. We need to lift each other high. Share, spread the word, buy local, listen, support and most importantly… show up.
Contact Info:
- Website: Linktr.ee/Soychingona
- Email: soychingona2018@gmail.com
- Instagram: @Soychingona2018
- Facebook: Erica Marie Martinez
Image Credit:
Dinorah Santana
Suggest a story: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
