Unapologetically First Gen

About Unapologetically First Gen

Join the Braga sisters, Lesley & Stacy, as they dive into the world of first-generation immigrant experiences. Growing up between two cultures brought its own set of challenges, joys, and unforgettable stories—and we’re here to spill all the tea. From being the official family translator to figuring out what a FASFA form even is… we explore what it means to grow up as the bridge between generations and cultures. Featuring sisterly conversations and guest stories from fellow first-gens, this podcast is a celebration of resilience, identity, and community. Whether you’re a first-gen yourself or simply curious about the experiences of navigating two worlds, this is your place to feel seen, heard, and inspired—and maybe even laugh a bit.

Publisher

Lesley Braga, Stacy Braga

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

20 Feb 2025

Latest episode

26 Mar 2026

Latest episodes

30 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   26 Mar 2026

   Inside Business Immigration Law with Lucy Magadichian

   In this episode, we're joined by Lucy Magadichian - immigration attorney, boutique practice owner, and immigrant herself - who has spent over 20 years helping companies and individuals navigate the complex world of U.S. immigration law. Lucy breaks down the business side of immigration in a way that's accessible and eye-opening. We talk about why mobility restrictions are one of the biggest hurdles facing foreign workers right now, how antiquated the U.S. immigration system really is, the heartbreaking reality of 15+ year green card waits for some applicants, and the importance of hiring a legitimate immigration attorney (and how to verify one). Plus, Lucy shares her own first-gen story - moving from Bulgaria at age 12, becoming her family's translator, and the sneaker moment that started her American education. Resources & Terms Mentioned Learn more about Lucy on her website https://www.lmaglaw.com (https://www.lmaglaw.com) or connect with her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-magardichian-22abba7/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-magardichian-22abba7/) Learn more about H1B Visas (https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/immigration/h1b): or O-1 Visas (https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/o-1-visa-individuals-with-extraordinary-ability-or-achievement) or check out the USCIC website (https://www.uscis.gov/) for information on other visas or scenarios.

2. 

   11 Mar 2026

   What Schools Are Missing with School Committee Member Luisa de Paula Santos

   In this episode, we’re joined by Luisa de Paula Santos—educator, labor organizer, and newly elected member of the Cambridge School Committee. As a first-gen immigrant and current paraprofessional, Luisa brings a powerful perspective from inside the education system. We talk about what it’s like to move from organizing workers to running for public office, what she saw working in schools that pushed her to run, and the complicated realities educators face behind the scenes. From underfunded classrooms to the fear teachers have about speaking up, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how school systems really operate. We also explore the role parents play in school communities, how districts sometimes pit teachers and families against each other, and why building stronger school communities is of the most important ways to support students. Luisa shares what it’s like navigating bureaucracy as a newly elected official, how her first-gen identity shapes her leadership, and why she’s determined to fight for dignity and justice in education. Resources & Terms Mentioned Learn more about IDEA, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (https://ncld.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/240502-Learn-the-Law-Individuals-with-Disabilities-Education-Act.pdf). Get to know Luisa (https://www.luisaforschoolcommittee.org/meet-luisa) If you live in Cambridge, MA and want to share your perspective, Luisa encourages you to reach out: luisa4schoolcommittee @gmail.com (http://gmail.com). Join the Community & Support Us Get your Unapologetically First Gen mug (https://www.azoraops.com/ufg-store) — perfect desk buddy and gift for your fave first-gen. Join our email list (https://www.azoraops.com/ufg-podcast) for new episodes, guest announcements, and behind-the-scenes sister moments. Follow us on Instagram @UFGPodcast (https://www.instagram.com/ufgpodcast/) to peek at the sister shenanigans, Portuguese snacks, and episode drops.

3. 

   11 Feb 2026

   Our One-Year Anniversary: What First-Gen Looks Like in One Family

   We made it—one full year of Unapologetically First Gen 🎉 For our anniversary episode, we wanted to do something special (and very on brand): invite family into the conversation. In this episode, Lesley and Stacy are joined by two of their older cousins, Michelle and Suzete, for an unfiltered, no-outline conversation about immigration, identity, and what it means to grow up first-gen—even within the same family. As some of the oldest cousins on their dad’s side, Michelle and Suzete helped pave the road the rest of us walked on, and their stories reveal just how different first-gen life can look across ages, neighborhoods, and circumstances. What unfolds is funny, tender, raw, and deeply honest. From early memories of arriving in the U.S., to intergenerational living in the legendary “Braga compound,” to conversations about shame, pride, community, and becoming yourself over time—this episode is a reminder that there is no single immigrant experience. Join the Community & Support Us Get your Unapologetically First Gen mug (https://www.azoraops.com/ufg-store) — perfect desk buddy and gift for your fave first-gen. Join our email list (https://www.azoraops.com/ufg-podcast) for new episodes, guest announcements, and behind-the-scenes sister moments. Follow us on You Tube (https://www.youtube.com/@UFGPodcast) and Instagram (@UFGPodcast (https://www.instagram.com/ufgpodcast/)) and on to peek at the sister shenanigans, Portuguese snacks, and episode drops.

Who has been a guest on Unapologetically First Gen

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Keyla Guardado
• Maria Timonina
• Soledad Boyd
• Romeu Bairos

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

7 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 40 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

68

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

Contact Unapologetically First Gen

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.