Hi there — I'm Hector Flores, founding member of Las Cafeteras, community organizer, musician, and new host of the National Immigration Law Center’s Freedom to Thrive Podcast.

We’re living through extremely hard times. I’ve been an organizer for over 20 years, and in moments like these, I’ve learned that storytelling and music are powerful tools to ground us, inspire action, and remind us of our shared humanity.

That’s why I’m thrilled to share the new season of Freedom to Thrive with you — featuring conversations about resistance, resilience, and the power of our stories:

• Comedy is Resistance – Cristela Alonzo: Fresh off her third Netflix comedy special, acclaimed comedian, writer, and actor Cristela Alonzo, explores how laughter fuels activism and how rest and joy are radical tools for change.

• Houston's Favorite Habibi – Mo Amer: Palestinian comedian, actor, and show creator Mo Amer talks about his immigration journey, his identity, and how he transforms his lived experiences into art.

• Justice For All – Efrén C. Olivares: Efrén Olivares, NILC’s Vice President of Litigation & Legal Strategy and celebrated human rights lawyer, shares childhood memories, stories of resistance, and how his immigrant experience shaped his commitment to justice.

• Three Chords and the Truth – Bryan Andrews: Country singer, songwriter, and activist Bryan Andrews dives into what inspires him to stand up for immigrant communities and the influences behind his music.

• We Have the Power – Dolores Huerta: Dolores Huerta, civil rights activist, labor leader, and community organizer, reflects on her journey into activism, what drives her work, and how each of us has a role to play in advocating for our communities.

Each episode is full of corazón, courage, and reminders that our voices, stories, and communities matter. You can catch these episodes and more on Apple, Amazon, and iHeart Radio.

Thank you for listening — and stay tuned for the rest of season two in 2026!

— Hector Flores