In this podcast, we embark on a captivating journey into the lives of extraordinary individuals who have shattered norms and blazed trails in the professional realm. Our show is dedicated to sharing the inspiring stories of those who come from diverse backgrounds and are the first in their families to navigate the often complex landscape of the professional world.
Stay tuned for our "After Hours" episodes, in which your hosts, Sophia Bañuelos, Kayla Gerardo, and Melisa Rodriguez delve deep into subjects like imposter syndrome, business casual, and many more. We'll decipher these ideas together, swap stories, and have a good time along the way.
This week we interview Ben Campos, a digital forensics expert and first generation student.
12 Dec 2025
After Hours: At Home
This week Kayla and Melisa discuss talking about work and college with family.
8 Dec 2025
Interview with Marrshal Ben Manuel
Today we interview Marrshal Ben Manuel, a CI computer science graduate and software engineer.
5 Dec 2025
After Hours: First-Gen Real Talk - Life Beyond the Degree
Join Kayla, Melisa, & Sophia as they explore life after undergrad as a first-gen student and professional.
1 Dec 2025
Interview with Gabriel Tirado
Host Melisa Rodriguez is joined by CSUCI computer science graduate Gabriel Tirado.
24 Nov 2025
Interview With Zane Gittins
Join us as we interview CSUCI alumni Zane Gittins. From CSUCI student to professional we will hear about his journey in cyber security and how he got where he is today.
7 Aug 2025
Interview with Dhruv Pandya
In this episode, Melisa Rodriguez sits down with Dhruv Pandya for an engaging conversation about their journey, experiences, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Whether it’s career growth, personal development, or navigating life’s challenges, this episode offers honest insights and practical advice.
1 Aug 2025
New Season, New Voices: Meet Melisa Rodriguez
We’re back for Season 2 of First Generation Professionals and we’re kicking things off with a fresh chapter and a new voice behind the mic!
In this season opener, you’ll get to know our newest host, Melisa Rodriguez, a proud first-gen graduate, storyteller, and rising force in the world of media and communication. Join Kayla Gerardo and Sophia Bañuelos as they welcome Melisa Rodriguezto the team and reflect on where they are now, what’s changed since graduation, and what to expect this season.
From bold interviews to real “After Hours” convos — Season 2 is here, and we’re just getting started.
22 Feb 2024
Interview with Adrian Rios
Get ready for a wave of inspiration as Sophia Banuelos, the trailblazing host of First Gen Professionals, gears up for an enriching exchange in this week's episode. Joining her in the studio is the remarkable Adrian Rios, a first-generation professional setting new standards.
In a captivating dialogue filled with insights and shared experiences, Sophia will uncover Adrian's unique journey through the professional landscape as a first-gen individual. From navigating challenges to embracing victories, this episode is set to offer invaluable perspectives for both aspiring first-gen students and established professionals.
Don't miss out on this empowering conversation! Tune in to First Gen Professionals this week and immerse yourself in the wisdom and inspiration brought forth by Adrian's remarkable story. Stay tuned for an episode that promises to leave a lasting impact!
7 Feb 2024
Interview with Martha Tran
Excitement buzzes as Sarah Cortez, a first-generation college student and host of First Gen Journeys, gears up for a captivating conversation on this week's episode. Joining her in the studio is Martha Tran, a trailblazing first-generation professional.
In a unique exchange of experiences and insights, Sarah will delve into Martha's journey navigating the professional world as a first-gen individual. From the challenges faced to the triumphs celebrated, this episode promises to offer invaluable perspectives for both first-gen students and professionals alike.
Don't miss out on this empowering dialogue! Tune in to First Gen Journeys this week to gain inspiration and wisdom from Martha's remarkable story. Stay tuned!
31 Jan 2024
After Hours: Hidden Curriculum
After Hours with Sophia, Sarah, and Kayla. Listen as they take you behind the scenes of first-gen college students! Tune in as they decode the essence of the hidden curriculum.
24 Jan 2024
Interview with Cassy Ortega
A journey of triumph and determination. Catch Cassy Ortega's inspiring interview where she shares her remarkable story as a first-generation professional. Tune in as she sits down with Kayla Gerardo, delving into the depths of her journey.
29 Nov 2023
Interview with Milena Flores
A journey of triumph and determination. Catch Milena's inspiring interview where she shares her remarkable story as a first-generation professional. Tune in as she sits down with Sarah Cortez, delving into the depths of her journey.
22 Nov 2023
Interview with Jose Medina
🎙️ Join us for an extraordinary interview with Jose Medina, a tale of resilience and achievement. Listen in as he shares his incredible journey as a first-generation professional in a compelling conversation with Kayla Gerardo. Discover this inspiring podcast episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and via RSS feed. #FirstGenPro #InspiringStories #PodcastInterview
15 Nov 2023
After Hours: Validation Theory
Unveiling Validation Theory: Sophia, Sarah, and Kayla take you behind the scenes in our first After-Hours Podcast episode! Tune in as they decode the essence of validation theory.
8 Nov 2023
Interview with Hailey Razo
Join us as we celebrate #FirstGenWeek with a unique twist. This time, we're turning the spotlight onto our amazing first-gen student voices. Tune in as our fellow first-gen student, Sophia Banuelos takes the host's seat to chat with the inspiring first-gen student, Hailey Razo.
Why a student this week? Because it's First Gen Week, and we believe in uplifting the incredible journeys of students who are pioneering their paths through higher education!
1 Nov 2023
Interview with Angel Garcia
A journey of triumph and determination. Catch Angel Garcia's inspiring interview where he shares his remarkable story as a first-generation professional. Tune in as he sits down with Sophia Bañuelos, delving into the depths of his journey.
25 Oct 2023
Interview with Tiffany Martinez
🎙️Join us for an inspiring conversation with Cal State University Channel Islands Communication alum Tiffany Martinez, a groundbreaking first-generation professional! 🌟 We’ll dive deep into her journey, challenges, and triumphs.🎧👩🎓
5 Oct 2023
Welcome to First Generation Professionals
Welcome to the "First Generation Professionals" podcast, where we break barriers and celebrate the journeys of first-generation college students turned successful professionals. In upcoming episodes, first-gen students will interview professionals, sharing their inspiring stories. We'll also dive into academic terms like imposter syndrome. In this inaugural episode, we unveil how we've made this podcast possible and set the stage for the incredible stories and insights to come. Join us on this empowering journey!
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.7 / 5
3 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 8 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
3
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
Contact First Generation Professionals
Guest appearances
Does not typically book guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of First Generation Professionals?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
