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WELCOME TO WOMEN EN LA FRONTERA
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Serving with JOySeason 3: Episode 1
In this episode of Women en La Frontera, San Juanita Sanchez shares her journey of leadership, faith, and service. As a mother, attorney, former mayor of San Juan, catechist, and founder of Sisters of Joy, she reflects on how her faith, family, and migrant upbringing have shaped her life. From praying the Rosary as a family to serving and leading her community, San Juanita shares how she has learned to trust God, recognize the gifts He has given her, and say yes when He calls.
Her story is a reminder that we are always growing, both as teachers and learners, and that even in moments of adversity, faith and community can give us the strength to keep moving forward. As she begins her journey as the new host of Women en La Frontera, San Juanita invites us to discover our own gifts and put them into action.
This episode also marks the beginning of Season 3 of Women en La Frontera, with Mrs. Brenda Nettles Riojas introducing San Juanita Sanchez as the new co-host. Together, they celebrate the importance of faith, family, service, and the women who continue to make a difference in our communities.
Host: San Juanita Sanchez
Guest/Season 3 Introduction: Brenda Nettles Riojas
Frontera Tips
San Juanita Sanchez: The Longest Game — A story of perseverance, determination, teamwork, and overcoming adversity, reminding us that when the world says no, God says yes.
Brenda Nettles Riojas: Cabrini — A powerful story of faith, courage, and the power of saying yes to God, even when obstacles stand in the way.
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Find the podcast at:
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Hosts
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Season 1
Brenda Nettles RiojasOur host for Season 1 of Women en la frontera, Brenda Nettles Riojas, Diocesan Relations Director of the Diocese of Brownsville and Editor of The Valley Catholic, features conversations with women from the Rio Grande Valley on topics that impact us all, and that give witness to the incredible ways God works in our lives.
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Season 2
Sister Norma PimentelSister Norma Pimentel, CEO of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, is the host of the second season of Women en la frontera.
She has led Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley since 2004. She has been recognized for her devotion and work for the marginalized and vulnerable.
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Season 3San Juanita Sanchez has been a lawyer for 30 years and is the host of the third season of Women en la frontera.
San Juanita Sanchez
She is one of the founding members of 'Sister of Joy', a lay catholic women's group at St. John the Baptist in San Juan. It is a ministry that motivates women to grow spiritually and empowers them to share their gifts and talents.
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Season 1 with Brenda Nettles Riojas
- Episode 1
- Episode 2
- Episode 3
- Episode 4
- Episode 5
- Episode 6
- Episode 7
- Episodio 8
- Episode 9
- Episode 10
- Episode 11
- Episode 12
- Episode 13
- Episode 14
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ListeningIn this pilot episode Host Brenda Nettle Riojas, Diocesan Relations Director of the Diocese of Brownsville and Editor of The Valley Catholic, is joined by guests Ofelia de los Santos and Lydia Pesina for a conversation about listening.
Guests:
Ofelia de los Santos, Director of the Stewardship and Grants Office and also of the Immigration Office. Before coming to the diocese Ofelia worked as an attorney in Hidalgo County.
Lydia Pesina, Director of the Family Life Office. She has an adopted daughter and two grandchildren
Reflection Questions:- Are you listening attentively to the people in your lives?
- What can I do to listen with the heart?
- How is the Lord calling us to live our vocation to holiness?
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Our own faith journeys and our relationship with Jesus Christ. How we listen and respond in our daily lives.In this second episode, Host Brenda Nettle Riojas, Diocesan Relations Director of the Diocese of Brownsville and Editor of The Valley Catholic, is joined by guests Ofelia de los Santos and Lydia Pesina for a conversation about listening.
Guests:
Ofelia de los Santos, Director of the Stewardship and Grants Office and also of the Immigration Office. Before coming to the diocese Ofelia worked as an attorney in Hidalgo County.
Lydia Pesina, Director of the Family Life Office. She has an adopted daughter and two grandchildren
Reflection Questions:- Are you listening attentively to the people in your lives?
- What can I do to listen with the heart?
- How is the Lord calling us to live our vocation to holiness?
Frontera Tips
Lydia:
As recommended by Bishop Daniel E. Flores, read the Gospels every day. Reminding us “you are what you think,” and we need to make space for the words of Jesus.
Ofelia:
Magnificat and Word Among Us.
Brenda:
Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation, The Joy of the Gospel: Evangelii Gaudium https://www.amazon.com/Joy-Gospel-Evangelii-Publication-Conference/dp/1601374585https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_exhortations/documents/papa-francesco_esortazione-ap_20131124_evangelii-gaudium.html
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Young Adult Faith JourneyIn this episode Brenda Nettle Riojas, Diocesan Relations Director of the Diocese of Brownsville and Editor of The Valley Catholic, is joined by Lolis Flores, Catholic musician and founder of a Rosary apostolate called Ejercito Mariano (Mary’s Army).
Guests:
Lolis Flores, Catholic musician and founder of a Rosary apostolate called Ejercito Mariano (Mary’s Army). https://www.facebook.com/lolis.music
Lolis shares her conversion story and how she has seen the power of prayer in her life. “The rosary has changed my life.” She also reminds us, “Los tiempos de Dios son perfectos”. (It’s all in God’s timing.)
Reflection Questions:- How do you maintain your faith in the day-to-day challenges?
Program closing song “En Lo Profundo” from Lolis CD by the same name. https://youtu.be/1O6ZtN9rrJE
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Called to be a Missionary in Defense of LifeIn this episode, Kristina Garza, a missionary, educator, and activist joins Brenda Nettle Riojas, Diocesan Relations Director of the Diocese of Brownsville and Editor of The Valley Catholic, for a conversation about the call to be a missionary and to defend life.
Guest:
Kristina Garza, a missionary, educator, and activist.
Reflection Questions:- How are you called to protect life?
- How are you evangelizing in your community?
- Is fear or indifference keeping you from responding to God’s call to action?
Frontera Tips
Kristina:
“Hail O Queen,” song by Damascus Worship https://youtu.be/kyTlCEeVR5U
Brenda:
The Mystery of the Eucharist in the Life of the Church from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops https://www.usccb.org/resources/7-703%20The%20Mystery%20of%20Eucharist,%20for%20RE-UPLOAD,%20JANUARY%202022.pdf
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The Sanctity of Life & the Work AheadIn this episode, Kristina Garza, a missionary, educator, and activist joins Brenda Nettle Riojas, Diocesan Relations Director of the Diocese of Brownsville and Editor of The Valley Catholic, for a conversation about the work ahead in the defense of life following the historic decision by the Supreme Court of the United States on June 24 to overturn Roe v. Wade. In their conversation they also address the myths and misconceptions about abortion
Guest:
Kristina Garza, a missionary, educator, and activist.
Reflection Questions:- Can you define what is an abortion?
- What steps can you take to become better informed and engaged to building a culture that cherishes every human life?
- Are you prepared to walk with a mom in need? Are you informed about the resources available for pregnant mothers in your community?
Frontera Tips
Kristina:
Will Wilder Book Series by Raymond Arroyo
Brenda:
Spend some time before the Blessed Sacrament.
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Hope, Reparation, Modesty & ChastityIn this episode, Patricia Sandoval, a prolife and chastity speaker, and author of the book Transfigured, joins Kristina Garza, a missionary, educator, and activist and Brenda Nettles Riojas, Diocesan Relations Director of the Diocese of Brownsville and Editor of The Valley Catholic, for a conversation about hope, reparation, modesty, chastity and the defense of life.
Guests:
Patricia Sandoval, a prolife and chastity speaker, and author of the book Transfigured, in which she shares her story of redemption after three abortions, drug addiction and homelessness.
Kristina Garza, a missionary, educator, and activist.
Reflection Questions:- What is modesty? Do you practice modesty?
- What gives you hope?
- Are there moments in your life for which you need to offer reparation?
Moving Forward & Frontera Tips
Patricia Sandoval:
Persevere. Never give up. “We are called to be faithful to the end.”
Kristina Garza:
Joy. “Remember, we are apostles of joy. … There is always a cause for joy.” “We persevere, but we also persevere with a smile.”
Brenda:
Learn. Learn more. Pick up a copy of Patricia Sandoval’s book: Transfigured: Patricia Sandoval's Escape from Drugs, Homelessness, and the Back Doors of Planned Parenthood
https://www.amazon.com/Transfigured-Patricia-Sandovals-Homelessness-Parenthood/dp/1947701002
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Apostolate of Holy MotherhoodIn this episode, a new mother, Tiffany Hinkle Riojas, joins Brenda Nettles Riojas for a conversation about motherhood and being a restoring part of the Church. Tiffany talks about her decision to stay home to care for her newborn and the opportunities to live out her faith.
Guest:
Tiffany Hinkle Riojas, New mother, culinarian, and businesswoman
Reflection Questions:- How are you being a restoring part of the Church?
- What moments in your daily life could you offer up as mortification?
- Which virtues are you working on in your life?
Frontera Tips
Tiffany: Look up Our Lady, the Immaculate Virgin, Patroness of Americahttps://patronessofamerica.org/
Brenda: Movie: Father Stu
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El Descernimiento para una Vida Consagrada, y el Acompañamiento con las Familias MigrantesEn este podcast las Misioneras Catequistas Lumen Christi que trabajan en la comunidad en Donna acompañan a Brenda Nettles Riojas para una conversación sobre el descernimiento para una vida consagrada, y el acompañamiento con las familias migrantes.
Invitadas:
Hermana María Jesús Martínez Pérez
Hermana Doris Santos
Hermana María de la Paz Morales
Las Pregunta:
¿Cómo podemos, en nuestra vida cotidiana, acompañar a los demás?
Consejos fronterizos:- La Película “Corazón Ardiente”. Invita a familias que se consagren al Sagrado Corazón de Jesús.
- Para las familias, empiecen a rezar el Santo Rosario.
- Para los jóvenes y para todos, los invito a reflexionar en sus vidas sobre la presencia real de Jesús en la Eucaristía y aprendan sobre la vida del Beato Carlo Acutis.
- Practica la gratitud. Escríbele a alguien una carta de agradecimiento esta semana.
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Caring for Our EldersIn this episode, Estela Soza Garza of McAllen joins Brenda Nettles Riojas for a conversation about caring for our elders.
Guest:
Estela Soza Garza of McAllen who for 40 years as a social worker provided services to families in different settings, including mental health support to residents in nursing homes.
Reflection Questions:- Who are the elders in your life?
- How are you engaging the elders in your life?
- What are some of the challenges you are facing?
- Do you have any tips to share with other on how to spark joy in our elders?
Frontera Tips
Estela:
Three books:- Tell me Your Life Story, Mom (Dad, Grandma, Grandpa) (Guided Journal and Memory Keepsake)
- The Caregiving Season: Finding Grace to Honor Your Aging Parents by Jane Daly
- The Family Caregiver's Manual: A Practical Planning Guide to Managing the Care of Your Loved One by David Levy
Brenda:
Pope Francis’ Catechesis on Old Age, 18 sessions offered during his General Audiences from Feb. 23, 2022 to August 24,
https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/audiences/2022.index.2.html
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Let’s Talk about DeathIn this episode, Lydia Pesina, director of the Family Life Office for the Diocese of Brownsville, who facilitates grieving sessions, joins Brenda Nettles Riojas for a conversation about death, working through grief, remembering our loved ones, and our own memento mori.
Guest:
Lydia Pesina, director of the Family Life Office for the Diocese of Brownsville.
Reflection Questions:- Who are you praying for this season of your life?
- How are you honoring their memory?
- Your Memento Mori/Remember your death. Are your prepared?
- Have you been following Christ and growing in holiness?
- How do you accompany another in their time of grief?
Frontera Tips
Lydia:
Book: The New Day Journal: A journey from grief to healing for people coping with the loss of a loved one,” by Mauryeen O’Brian
Song: “Tiempos” by Ruben Blades (https://youtu.be/mCjYsBscZ7I)
Tips for those who are grieving:- Embrace all emotions as they appear.
- Do the WORK of grieving.
- Process your grief with another.
- Be patient with yourself and with God’s healing process.
- Be cognitive of the stages of grieving.
Brenda:
Create a play list of music that reminds you of your loved one who has passed.
Two songs on Brenda’s list include:- “Vivir Mi Vida” by Marc Anthony (https://youtu.be/YXnjy5YlDwk?t=63)
- “For Those Who Can't Be Here” by Tom Walker (https://youtu.be/dyXBfAjDj-A)
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Walking in the Spirit of ChristIn this episode, Yolanda Carrillo, director of Health Ministries for the Diocese of Brownsville, joins Brenda Nettles Riojas for a conversation about the lessons learned from her work in health ministry – being Christ to others, maintaining joy in challenging moments, end-of-life decisions, and mental health realities.
Guest:
Yolanda Carrillo, director of Health Ministries for the Diocese of Brownsville.
Reflection Questions:- What are the wounds you carry that you need to heal so that you can be more present for others?
- How do you comfort another during times of struggle?
- Have you talked about end-of-life decisions with your loved ones?
- How do you maintain joy in your life and balance the joys and the sorrows?
Frontera Tips
Yolanda:
Book: “Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence” by Sarah Young
Movie: Miracle in Cell No. 7
Brenda: The Rules of St. Benedict
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Gratitude & AdventIn this episode, Angelica Corona, Creative Communication Specialist for the Diocese of Brownsville, joins Brenda Nettles Riojas for a conversation about gratitude and entering the season of Advent.
Guest:
Angelica Corona, Creative Communication Specialist for the Diocese of Brownsville.
Reflection Questions:- What are the blessings in your life this year? Do you thank the Lord, Jesus daily?
- What saint will accompany you in this New Year?
- How will you prepare this Advent season?
Frontera Tips
Angelica:
Make a Christmas Creche for the Baby Jesus with acts of kindness and verses from the Gospels.
Slow down the Christmas decorations.
Brenda:
Book: To Begin Again: An Advent Invitation by Bishop Daniel E. Flores
Spend some time for a personal Year-in-Review
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Saying “Yes” to God’s CallIn this episode, Sister Norma Pimentel, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, joins as a co-host with Brenda Nettles Riojas for a conversation about saying “yes” to God, accompanying others, and recognizing God’s presence in everything we do.
Co-host:
Sister Norma Pimentel, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley
Reflection Questions:- When was the last time you took time for a retreat?
- How often do you take time to spend in silence and in prayer to recharge yourself so that you are better equipped to say “yes” to God’s call?
- How are you accompanying another who may need of your presence?
- Who is walking with you and helping you on your journey to God?
Frontera Tips
Sister Norma:
Go find someone you can help without expecting anything in return.
Book: La familia que alcanzó a Cristo: La saga de Citeaux by M. Raymond
Brenda:
Book: Out of Solitude: Three Meditations on the Christian Life by Henri J.M. Nouwen
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Be Not Afraid; Be a Courageous Woman of FaithIn this episode, Rosie Stockwell from Edinburg, Texas who is an active member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, joins Brenda Nettles Riojas for a conversation about service, humility and being a courageous woman of faith.
Guest:
Rosie Stockwell, a member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Past State Regent (from 2017 to 2019), and leadership trainer.
Reflection Questions:- What helps you keep peace in your heart?
- How have you been a representative of peace?
- How are you being a courageous woman of faith?
Frontera Tips
Rosie
Book: “Humility of Heart” by Father Cajetan Mary da Bergamo (Translated by Herbert Cardinal Vaughan
Brenda
Make some time to journal.
Question prompt: Have there been moments in my life where I have held back from doing something out of fear?
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Segunda Temporada con la Hermana Norma Pimentel
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Mujeres de FeEn este episodio, Rose Pallais se une a la Hermana Norma Pimentel para conversar sobre cómo ser una mujer de fe.
Presentadora: Hermana Norma Pimentel
Invitada: Guest: Rosa Pallais
Frontera Tips
Rose: Para entrar en oración con Dios, primero hay que aprender a silenciar y callar todos los ruidos en el corazón y la mente.
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Nunca estás SoloEn este episodio de Mujeres en La Frontera, la Hermana Norma Pimentel conversa con Esperanza Gelman sobre la soledad, la depresión y la necesidad profunda que todos tenemos de sentirnos amados. A través de su experiencia en los Talleres de Oración y Vida, Esperanza comparte cómo una relación personal con Dios puede transformar nuestra perspectiva, sanar el corazón y recordarnos que nunca estamos verdaderamente solos.
Presentadora: Hermana Nora Pimentel
Invitada: Esperanza Gelman
Frontera Tips
Esperanza Gelman: "Antes de que empiecen las preocupaciones del día, al despertar, cierra los ojos y hazte consciente de la presencia de Dios. Permanece unos minutos en silencio con Él."
Hermana Norma Pimentel: "Piensa en alguien con quien hace tiempo no hablas. Llámalo, visítalo o pregúntale cómo está. Un pequeño gesto puede recordarle que no está solo."
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Aprender a Escuchar a DiosEn este episodio de Mujeres en la Frontera, la Hermana Norma Pimentel conversa con Rosita Pallais sobre la importancia del silencio en la oración y cómo hacer espacio para que Dios hable a nuestro corazón. Además, comparten consejos prácticos para fortalecer la vida familiar a través del respeto, la comunicación, la oración y el tiempo compartido.
Presentadora: Hermana Norma Pimentel
Invitada: Rosita Pallais
Frontera Tips
Rosita Pallais: "Mantén a tu familia unida. No dejes pasar el día sin hacer una llamada o enviar un mensaje para recordarles cuánto los quieres."
Hermana Norma Pimentel: "Al menos una vez al día, pregúntale a alguien: '¿Cómo estás?' y escucha con atención su respuesta."
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Finding Peace in ChristIn this episode of Women en La Frontera, Sister Norma Pimentel sits down with Joanne Gomez to discuss how to live out your faith in everyday life, even in the midst of anxiety and life's challenges. Joanne shares her conversion story, the power of prayer, and how trusting in God has brought her peace, strengthened her family, and shown her that only Christ can fill the emptiness of the human heart.
Host: Sister Norma Pimentel
Guest: Joanne Gomez
Border Tips
Joanne Gomez: "Parents, never stop praying for your children. And to the young people: open your hearts to God, because only He can fill the emptiness that nothing else can."
Sister Norma Pimentel: "Before jumping to conclusions about someone, ask them and seek to understand the truth. Communication strengthens our relationships and helps prevent many misunderstandings."
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Living the Faith EverydayIn this episode of Women en La Frontera, Sister Norma Pimentel speaks with Michelle Nunez about how to live an authentic faith in the midst of the distractions of the world. Michelle shares how prayer, the sacraments, and serving others have helped her discover her vocation, trust in God during difficult moments, and keep her heart focused on what truly matters.
Host: Sister Norma Pimentel
Guest: Michelle Nunez
Border Tips
Michelle Nunez: "Make time for silence and prayer. It is there that God speaks to our hearts and helps us discover the path He is calling us to follow."
Sister Norma Pimentel: "Do not let a single day pass without doing something good for someone else. God can use you to bring hope to others."
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Discovering your PurposeIn this episode of Women en La Frontera, Sister Norma Pimentel speaks with Dr. Julieta Garcia about leadership, courage, mentorship, and discovering the purpose God has placed in our lives. Dr. Garcia shares her journey growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, breaking barriers as a Latina leader in higher education, and using her life experiences to open doors for future generations. She reflects on the importance of mentors, resilience through difficult moments, and the responsibility we all have to help others find their strength and purpose.
Host: Sister Norma Pimentel
Guest: Dr. Julieta Garcia
Border Tips
Dr. Julieta Garcia: "Take your shot. Don’t wait for the safe moment. Sometimes courage means stepping forward, taking on the hard work, and discovering the strength you have within you."
Sister Norma Pimentel: "Ask yourself: How can I be strong? How can I have courage? How can I move forward from where I am today? Be inspired by those who have encouraged you and remember that you can continue forward."
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Finding Hope After LossIn this episode of Women en La Frontera, Sister Norma Pimentel speaks with Laura Tobin-Cardenas about resilience, faith, healing, and finding hope through life’s most difficult moments. Laura shares her journey growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, the strength and faith she inherited from her mother, and how those lessons have carried her through unimaginable loss. After losing her daughter, grandson, and husband to suicide, Laura reflects on the importance of seeking support, staying connected to others, and trusting God one day at a time. She shares how faith, prayer, and helping others have become part of her healing journey and her mission to offer hope to those who are struggling.
Host: Sister Norma Pimentel
Guest: Laura Tobin-Cardenas
Border Tips
Laura Tobin-Cardenas: "Do not be afraid to ask for help. There is always someone listening. Reach out to the person who is suffering and let them know that you are there, that you care, and that you love them."
Sister Norma Pimentel: "Remember that you are not alone. God holds you through the love of the people around you, and by reaching out to others, we can help bring hope and healing into their lives."
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Serving with JoyIn this episode of Women en La Frontera, San Juanita Sanchez shares her journey of leadership, faith, and service. As a mother, attorney, former mayor of San Juan, catechist, and founder of Sisters of Joy, she reflects on how her faith, family, and migrant upbringing have shaped her life. From praying the Rosary as a family to serving and leading her community, San Juanita shares how she has learned to trust God, recognize the gifts He has given her, and say yes when He calls.
Her story is a reminder that we are always growing, both as teachers and learners, and that even in moments of adversity, faith and community can give us the strength to keep moving forward. As she begins her journey as the new host of Women en La Frontera, San Juanita invites us to discover our own gifts and put them into action.
This episode also marks the beginning of Season 3 of Women en La Frontera, with Mrs. Brenda Nettles Riojas introducing San Juanita Sanchez as the new co-host. Together, they celebrate the importance of faith, family, service, and the women who continue to make a difference in our communities.
Host: San Juanita Sanchez
Guest/Season 3 Introduction: Brenda Nettles Riojas
Frontera Tips
San Juanita Sanchez: The Longest Game — A story of perseverance, determination, teamwork, and overcoming adversity, reminding us that when the world says no, God says yes.
Brenda Nettles Riojas: Cabrini — A powerful story of faith, courage, and the power of saying yes to God, even when obstacles stand in the way.
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