Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tori Escamilla. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Tori , appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

My podcast has by far been the most meaningful project. Although I grew up in San Antonio, a predominately hispanic city, we didn’t learn much of our own history. I didn’t even realize Mexico won at the Alamo when I was a child because there is such a big emphasis on the “heroes” we celebrate. I love history and have felt this platform has been a way to teach others what we contributed to American history.

Tori , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

For 14 years I have served in the US Navy, ten of those years were active duty and it definitely helped mold me. The experiences of serving along people from different backgrounds and acclimating to different locations and environment really opened my eyes to a bigger part of the world outside of my little bubble. Once I came back to San Antonio, I wanted to use my experiences and knowledge I gathered and share it with the masses. Around that time I started listening to podcasts, one idea led to another and Chicana Chisme came to be! This is my third year as a podcast host and I have loved being able to share peoples stories, resources, and Mexican American history with my audience. (Not to mention I have been able to meet amazing people I might have never had the chance to interact with otherwise.) To me Chicana Chisme is everything I hope to represent when people think of me. That my personality and love of community shines through your headphones.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

My most rewarding part is getting feedback from my audience that they learned something new, appreciated the resource, or were glad a certain topic was talked about.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I am a big history buff, in particular Mexican American history. A few years ago we had a heavy political climate that put a spotlight on hispanics in America and greatly diminished the part they played to “make America great”. My hope is that others understand how much we really helped America be what it is now. From the Mendez vs Westminster case that sparked the famous Brown vs Board of Education to the Bracero Program that brought over Mexican laborers during World War II.    

Contact Info:

• Website: linktr.ee/chicanachisme
• Instagram: @chicanachismepodcast
• Tiktok: @chicanachismepod