Latino USA

Epizode

• 
  The Meaning of Ricky Martin’s Evolution 31.07.2026 34min

  A few months ago, Maria Garcia was watching the Benito Bowl when an unexpected artist came on: the one and only Ricky Martin. Maria knew this was a touchstone moment — the artist who most represented the ‘90s Latin Boom was singing a song of resistance, in Spanish. And then Maria’s 11-year-old son said, “Who’s that???”  Today, in an exclusive listen to the first episode of “Muy Excited with Maria Garcia,” our new podcast from Futuro Studios and iHeartRadio, Maria revisits the importance of Ricky Martin, the queer icon’s career and life, and how he had to live “La vida loca” so that Bad Bunny could do “Lo que le da la gana.” Watch this episode on YouTube.   Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Salsa in NYC: Rosie Perez live at WNYC 26.07.2026 29min

  Rosie Perez has long been synonymous with New York and hip hop culture, starting with her appearances on “Soul Train”, her iconic choreographies and her big break with Spike Lee in “Do the Right Thing”. But when the Oscar, Golden Globe, and Emmy-nominated actress received a call to host a podcast about salsa music history, the native Nuyorican immediately said yes. Rosie is the host of Futuro Media’s new podcast “Our Thing: The Birth of Salsa in Nueva York” about the history of salsa in the city, the legends behind the music and Fania Records–often called “the Motown of Salsa”. On this episode of Latino USA recorded in front of a live audience at WNYC’s The Greene Space in New York City, Rosie Perez opens up about the experience. We discuss her love of boxing, what it means to grow up Nuyorican, and what salsa history means to her.    Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  The Best (and Worst) of the 2026 World Cup 24.07.2026 29min

  The Men’s World Cup may be over but there’s so much to talk about still. We sit down with a soccer expert and superfan to discuss the significance of this summer’s tournament. We get into the many “firsts” in a global competition that’s been around for almost 100 years; the controversial moments and most joyful storylines; and Spain’s journey to the coveted trophy. We also hear from host of “American Futbol” Fernanda Echavarri, about what it was like to teach her daughter all about her love for the World Cup.    Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  A Live Performance and Interview with Venezuelan Musician Ella Bric 19.07.2026 49min

  Venezuelan musician and composer Ella Bric made history as the first woman to win producer of the year at the 2018 Latin Grammys. The trumpet player made a name for herself after moving to New York City and most recently made waves on Karol G’s Mañana Sera Bonito Tour. In this special Latino USA collaboration with WNYC, we bring you a live conversation and performance recorded in front of a live audience at The Greene Space in NYC. Ella Bric spoke to NYC Now host Janae Pierre about composing music for Futuro Media’s Our Thing: The Birth of Salsa in Nueva York and how jazz shapes her sound.   Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Five Days in Palestina 17.07.2026 56min

  In early February, Latino USA traveled to the occupied West Bank to learn about the roots of the deep connections between Latinos and Palestinians. Maria Hinojosa and producer Nour Saudi accompanied a group of U.S. students and academics as they traveled from Jordan to Ramallah with their counterparts from a Palestinian university. Speaking with refugees, community leaders and student activists, we look at the parallels between the two communities— from the U.S. student protest movement to shared experiences of borders and surveillance and shared cultures around family, food and friendship.    Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Harvey Guillén: Breaking Hollywood Molds 12.07.2026 28min

  When actor Harvey Guillén auditioned for a role written for a character 20 years older than him, he got cast anyway. In this intimate conversation with Maria Hinojosa, Harvey reveals how he became the breakout heart of What We Do in the Shadows as Guillermo, the vampires’ overworked human assistant who refused to stay a sidekick. In this 2025 Latino USA episode, Harvey explains how he’s built a career chasing roles not written for someone who looks like him, and rewriting them once he's in the room. He talks about trauma, tenacity, and turning “no” into a career.   Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  The Sacred Indigenous Story of the Coca Leaf 10.07.2026 29min

  Indigenous groups in South America have been cultivating the coca leaf for 8 millennia. But when the coca leaf became the base ingredient for cocaine, its story changed. In 1961, the United Nations classified the coca leaf in the same category as cocaine itself, regulating it at the same level. But the coca leaf is not a narcotic drug—it is a mild natural stimulant, venerated as sacred by many. An international movement has been trying to decriminalize and destigmatize the coca leaf. This episode spotlights the Indigenous origins of the coca leaf, and what its future could be. Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Andrés Cantor: The Man Behind "Goooool!" 05.07.2026 29min

  Andrés Cantor has been a sports announcer for almost 40 years. He’s received eight Emmy Awards for his broadcasting and a place in the National Soccer Hall of Fame. You know his voice. His “Gooooooooool” has been featured everywhere from Late Night to the Simpsons. In this special episode of our new podcast “American Futbol,” we get into the nitty gritty of calling a game, why he’s not afraid to cry, and the beauty of the World Cup.  Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Released To Die: Episode 3 03.07.2026 32min

  After months out of prison, Frank Ross’ dementia has progressed. At times, he can no longer remember why he needs to wear the GPS monitor the law requires, putting his freedom at risk. He is dealing with serious health issues while adapting to his new life at the healthcare facility. While Frank struggles to live out his release in peace, we learn about a bill that advocates and some lawmakers say could reform Pennsylvania's compassionate release system, easing the state's financial burden and helping people like Frank whose healthcare needs aren’t being met in prison, to be released sooner. This is part three of “Released To Die” a three part mini series that explores what it means to get a chance to die free.  Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Released To Die: Episode 2 28.06.2026 33min

  Michie, an incarcerated woman serving a life sentence at a Pennsylvania prison, learned early on that she needed to advocate for her own health behind bars. Over the decades and as she grew older, she says she witnessed many friends grow ill and die behind bars. Then, in her late 60’s, she discovers that she too has breast cancer. As Michie recounts the challenges of getting older - and sicker - in prison, we explore the particular health challenges that older women face while incarcerated. This is part two of “Released To Die,” a three-part miniseries that explores what it means to have a chance to die free. Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Released To Die: Episode 1 26.06.2026 32min

  Frank Ross was sentenced to die in prison – but after decades behind bars, he faces a new shot at freedom. At 93-years-old, Frank Ross is struggling with serious health issues. He’s able to secure a medical transfer to live out his final days at a healthcare facility through a law commonly known as “compassionate release.” Frank’s story is representative of a growing problem in prisons across the U.S., where the number of incarcerated people considered elderly has reached a historic peak. Compassionate release is one of the few options that could help combat the growing number of sick and elderly people.  This is part one of “Released To Die” a three part mini series that explores what it means to get a chance to die free. Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  More Than A Degree: A Celebration of Family in Fresno 21.06.2026 29min

  This graduation ceremony is not like the rest. Here, when students walk on stage to get their diplomas, announcers call the students' names, and also the names of their parents. We went to the 50th Annual Chicano/Latino Commencement Celebration at Fresno State, which is the largest, bilingual, bicultural affinity graduation celebration in the country. We go to the heart of California’s Central Valley to bring you the story of three graduates, and their families. We explore what it means to earn a degree and honor those who made it possible to get one. Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Zohran Mamdani: Welcome to NYC, Where Fútbol Meets Joy, Politics and Tacos 19.06.2026 28min

  NYC has, arguably, dubbed its number one fan: Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The mayor has been celebrating big after the Knicks’ NBA Championship win, and cheering during the World Cup. To him, it’s more than sports; it’s political. “The World Cup offers us a chance to know each other as we truly are, to be curious, to be excited, to be joyful,” he told Latino USA. “Here in New York City, we have an opportunity to understand that no matter where you're from, you're at home.” Maria Hinojosa sits down with Mayor Mamdani to talk about sports, immigration, ICE, Trump, and what makes a great taco. This story is part of our democracy and election coverage: The Latino Factor: How We Vote. Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  David Archuleta on Coming Out, American Idol, and Faith 14.06.2026 27min

  In the early 2000’s David Archuleta broke into stardome on American Idol, capturing the hearts of millions. But behind the scenes he was grappling with his sexuality and faith.  “I felt like if people found this out about me, they would know how dirty I was,” he told Maria Hinojosa when talking about what the Mormon Church made him feel, early on, when he began to realize he could be gay. In a new memoir, David reveals his journey to fame and how he has worked to embrace his authentic self. Listen to this intimate conversation about his journey and what his faith looks like today. Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Mon Laferte & Francisca Valenzuela Speak Up About Music and Feminism 12.06.2026 28min

  Mon Laferte and Francisca Valenzuela are both Chilean singer-songwriters using their platforms to draw attention to important issues while creating meaningful change. From Mon walking a red carpet in 2019 at the Latin Grammys, bare-breasted, with words calling out femicide, to Francisca’s founding of Ruidosafest, the all-Latina music festival and research platform, the two women are working hard to change the game.  In today’s episode of Latino USA, we speak to both of them about feminism, their music, and how the ghosts of Chile’s musical past guide them to keep pushing for change.   Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Mon Laferte: Una conversación con la femme fatale de la música y su nuevo álbum, ya disponible 12.06.2026 31min

  La cantautora chilena Mon Laferte es una máquina en la industria musical como activista, artista y feminista. Creció con sus héroes musicales chilenos guiándola, como Violeta Parra y Víctor Jara. Entonces, no es sorpresa que ella también siga sus pasos, trabajando por un mundo más justo para todos. Su nuevo álbum, titulado “Femme Fatale Vol. 2”, ya está disponible. Es una colección de 20 canciones sobre el amor, de esos amores que ya hay que dejar ir. También hay una canción sobre la industria musical.  En este episodio especial de Latino USA en español hablamos con Mon Laferte sobre el feminismo, su nuevo álbum y lo que la inspira en su activismo. ¿Quieres apoyar nuestro periodismo independiente? Únete a Futuro+ para acceder a episodios exclusivos, adelantos y chisme detrás de cámaras sobre Latino USA y todos nuestros pódcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Rosie Perez Traces the Birth of Salsa in Nueva York 07.06.2026 36min

  Oscar and Emmy-nominated actress Rosie Perez takes us on the journey of the birth of salsa in Nueva York and the rebellious, seductive and political label that defined it: Fania Records. The 1960s brings social and political change to the world and to New York City, where a young Johnny Pacheco keeps people dancing with his orchestra and charanga music. The Dominican musician is also going through a divorce and his lawyer, Jerry Masucci, happens to be a fan of Johnny’s music. They formed Fania Records, changing music forever. This is the first episode of Futuro’s new podcast Our Thing: The Birth of Salsa in Nueva York. The first two episodes are out now wherever you listen to your favorite shows. Subscribe and follow so you don’t miss upcoming episodes. Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  A Decade After Pulse: The Quest for Accountability 05.06.2026 29min

  This June marks a decade since one of the worst mass shootings in U.S. history at the gay nightclub Pulse in Orlando, Florida.  “Sometimes when I close my eyes, I see when I was on the floor on [sic] that restroom,” Jorshua Hernández Carrión, a survivor of the shooting, told us.  Through an interview with Jorshua, and a review of the investigations, Latino USA unpacks the lack of accountability, and how we should honor Pulse victims and survivors. We also talk with Carl Charles, a trans attorney with Lambda Legal, about how violence against the LGBTQ+ community has taken new forms in laws and rhetoric.  Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  Tab Ramos and the Rebirth of U.S. Soccer 31.05.2026 27min

  When Tab Ramos’ family migrated from Uruguay as a child in the 1970s, he had no idea he’d play a role in the rebirth of U.S. soccer. “I remember telling my father at the time: out of all the countries in the world that we could move to, why do we have to move to the one that doesn't have soccer?” Tab said. But Tab became one of the best U.S. soccer players of the 1990s and played for the national team when the U.S. hosted the World Cup in 1994. In this special episode of our new podcast “American Futbol” we hear about his losses, his wins, and a cracked skull that nearly killed him.  Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
• 
  The Game We Love 29.05.2026 28min

  The Men’s World Cup is coming to our continent – and to this country! But what does soccer mean in the U.S.? Latino USA’s own Fernanda Echavarri asks that question in our new show “American Futbol.”  We hear from immigrants all across the country for whom soccer is a touchstone, and who’ve also woven the sport into American culture and life. And we go back to the 90’s, to the very first time the World Cup came to the United States. There was Oprah, there was O.J., and it changed soccer in the U.S. forever. The first 3 episodes of “American Futbol” are where you’re listening to this podcast.  Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa. Follow the show to get every episode. Want to support our independent journalism? Join Futuro+ for exclusive episodes, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes chisme on Latino USA and all our podcasts. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube. Subscribe to our newsletter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.