Culture, Rest, and the First-Gen Journey with Sarah Diaz

Culture, Rest, and the First-Gen Journey with Sarah Diaz

Author: Iyana Anderson, LSW December 18, 2025 Duration: 33:10

In this episode, I'm joined by Sara Diaz, a licensed clinical social worker, first-generation Cuban American, and the founder of The First Gen Madrina. Sara was also one of our speakers at this year's Women in Wellness Summit. 

Together, we talk about the impact of culture, its beauty, its richness, and also the parts many of us are learning to unlearn. Sara shares her personal journey as a first-generation college student, how navigating mental health challenges shaped her path into social work, and why rest is not a betrayal of our families' sacrifices, but a way to honor them.

We also explore the realities first-generation students face in college spaces that were not always built with them in mind, the mental health barriers they encounter, and the importance of mentorship, community, and culturally affirming support. Sarah reflects on what it means to hold on to our cultural values while also choosing ourselves, slowing down, and redefining success on our own terms.

This episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and consider what you may want to leave behind as the year ends, what you're ready to unlearn, and how you want to move into the new year with more intention, rest, and support.

Whether you are a first-generation student, a professional, or someone navigating your own journey of becoming, this conversation offers grounding, honesty, and reminders that you are not alone.

Learn more about Sara's work and stay connected with us:

Sara Diaz – The First Gen Madrina

Well Together


Finding a genuine conversation about mental well-being that moves beyond clinical terms can be a challenge. Mental Health Unscripted exists in that space, guided by the experience and empathy of Licensed Social Worker Iyana Anderson. As the founder of Well Together, Iyana approaches these dialogues with a deep understanding that our mental state is intertwined with every other aspect of our lives-our physical fitness, our work, and our personal growth. This podcast brings together a wide range of voices, from therapists and wellness practitioners to entrepreneurs and individuals with powerful stories, all contributing to a richer, more practical understanding of what it means to be well. You’ll hear unpolished, honest discussions that offer tangible insights and strategies, making complex topics accessible and relatable. It’s a resource for anyone who has ever felt stuck on their path or is simply curious about fostering a healthier mind. By tuning in, you join a community-oriented exploration, where the focus is on the whole person, not just a diagnosis. Each episode is designed to feel like a thoughtful conversation with a knowledgeable friend, providing both perspective and actionable steps for navigating daily life with greater resilience and clarity.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 25

Mental Health Unscripted
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