In this episode of Black, Brown & Bilingüe, we sit down with award-winning author and illustrator Duncan Tonatiuh to explore his creative journey. Duncan shares insights into his unique writing process, the cultural and historical inspirations behind his work, and the deep connection between place, identity, and storytelling. Through a thoughtful conversation, we discuss how his Mexican-American heritage shapes his art and how he uses picture books to honor untold histories and amplify marginalized voices.

Lissette and Maurice sit down and discuss the truth about DEI and make a commitment to calling out injustice. Diversity, Equity, any Inclusion is not going anywhere. Lets call it by its name!

Join Lissette and Maurice as they welcome back Dr. Paul Ortiz where he shared insights into his involvement in American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos, a documentary that sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of Latinos in shaping U.S. history. Dr. Ortiz, a historian and author specializing in Latino and African American histories, discussed the importance of elevating narratives that challenge traditional historical perspectives.

In our conversation with Luis Cortes Romero, he shared his perspective on participating in From Here, From There, a documentary that explores the lived experiences of immigrants navigating identity, belonging, and the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. As an attorney and advocate deeply involved in immigration law, Cortes Romero discussed how the film captures the resilience and struggles of individuals who, like himself, have been shaped by their immigrant experiences.

In this episode, Lissette and Maurice spoke with Dr. Laura C. Chávez-Moreno about her book How Schools Make Race: Teaching Latinx Racialization in America. The discussion focused on how schools shape ideas about race through policies and practices, often reinforcing racial inequalities. Using a bilingual education program as a case study, Chávez-Moreno highlighted the complexities of racialization for Latinx students and how education can both challenge and perpetuate racism. You can find her book here https://www.amazon.com/How-Schools-Make-Race-Racialization/dp/1682539229/ref=sr_1_1?crid=357VA2TCWBSSY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._dbbD0aGej4cYl9u0c7Lo2T1VlfaVf2nO7ypkz-B208.-Bh48iCPvW5kqVMY2SLLgdxaUuYD1rdPIdm4q9RNW4M&dib_tag=se&keywords=how+schools+make+race+teaching+latinx+racialization+in+america&qid=1728232323&sprefix=how+schools+make+ra%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-1

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Djuana Okotete, a former teacher who bravely transitioned from education to the corporate world before finding her true calling as a children's book author and reading advocate. Djuana shares the emotional challenges of leaving behind her beloved profession, the unexpected intersections between education and corporate life, and the fulfilling journey of returning to her passion for storytelling. With candid insights into her creative process and the impact of her work on young readers, Djuana's story reminds us of the power of following our passions against all odds

Lissette and Maurice talk about their experience being extroverted leaders and how to navigate working with fellow extroverts as well as introverts in the work place.

Join Lissette and Maurice as they kick off season 5 with a discussion of who they would invite to dinner and talk all things leadership.