Addressing topics ranging from history and governance around the US/Mexico border, to immigrant mental health, Latinos’ experiences in the workplace, and more, Latino Insights is a podcast launched this year by the Latino Research Center.

“Join us as we discuss research that directly impacts the Latino community in our state,” reads the podcast description on Spotify. “This podcast serves as a bridge between academia and the general public, with the goal of disseminating key findings and shedding light on pressing issues affecting Latinos. Through Latino Insights, we strive to create an inclusive space that fosters dialogue, awareness and unity in our community.”

This inclusive space and fostering a sense of belonging are important to the Latino Research Center, says Jafeth Sanchez, Ph.D., the Center’s director.

“We’re creating an additional platform for meaningful dialogue on topics that not only resonate with Latinos, but this also helps improve the knowledge and scholarship that exists around Latinx endeavors for all listeners,” said Sanchez . “The podcast celebrates a sense of connection and belonging through diverse voices. The podcast brings conversations that focus on our collaborative efforts, storytelling and opportunities for continued impact within the community and beyond.”

The podcast was revived in March 2024 and currently offers a series of fascinating episodes with savvy guests. The hub is still determining a regular posting cadence, but aims to do about one new episode per month to give listeners time to find, engage with, and process the information in each episode.

While the podcast is intended to create a space that fosters dialogue and thought about Latino-focused topics, it is not intended to be solely the perspectives of Latino scholars. The focus and inspiration is on a better understanding of Latino perspectives as a whole.

“We want to improve the means by which we (or our partners) can provide information about the Latino community,” Sanchez said. “The goals are to share relevant, timely information that doesn’t require access to a database or a paywall. It also helps engage partners inside and outside the university while maintaining a focus on serving as a liaison to the community and the institution… For example, in our last episodethe recent LRC HSI report highlighted the importance of cultural relevance in the curriculum, along with a better understanding of historical contexts.”

Learn more and listen to Latino Insights on Spotify.