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This Is EZ With Friends

This Is EZ With Friends

By Erika Zapata

This is EZ with friends is a podcast for the people by the people. All guests are real life friends of mine who have volunteered their time and their stories. We’re here to uplift each other and the overall consciousness. Leave any judgment at the door and come on in. This is EZ with friends.
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This is EZ with Erik V. - Coming Out/Just Being

This Is EZ With FriendsJul 05, 2022

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01:30:06
This Is EZ With Family - Bonus Xmas Episode

This Is EZ With Family - Bonus Xmas Episode

As a Christmas gift to all of my listeners, I am releasing a bonus episode that I recorded over the Thanksgiving break with my family. Surprisingly, I didn’t have to twist anybody’s arm. Everyone willingly chatted with me about their favorite Thanksgiving memories and the things they are most grateful for this year. There seemed to be an overwhelming appreciation for community. I bring you this episode as a reminder that we all seek human connection. Take some inventory this holiday season and don’t forget to tell your loved ones that they mean the world to you. Happy Xmas, everyone! Love & light from This Is EZ With Friends. Season 2 will likely drop sometime in early February. I have some great conversations lined up! Stay tuned!
Dec 23, 202334:46
This is EZ with Mario Zapata - Una Entrevista Con Mi Papa/An Interview With My Dad

This is EZ with Mario Zapata - Una Entrevista Con Mi Papa/An Interview With My Dad

Mario Zapata is Nicaraguense and he came to this country on September 19, 1978/1979 (he didn’t seem sure, and I’m not sure either). He traveled on PanAmerica’s final flight from Nicaragua to LAX and arrived at 4:30 in the afternoon. He’s also my dad. 

My parents divorced when I was four, and I’ve spent my entire life trying to piece together what happened. I’m still not sure, but I had the desire to get to know my dad a little better since I didn’t grow up in the same house as him. He indulged my curiosity by sitting with me and allowing me to ask him a series of random questions ranging from “What’s your favorite movie” to “What’s the greatest compliment you’ve ever received.” I spent the month of September trying to get 1000 listens, and realized that this podcast isn’t really about that. It’s about sharing stories and documenting history. 20 years from now, this interview will still exist. This conversation is a time capsule, and I’m so grateful. Thank you to everyone who listened to all of this season’s episodes.  I love you. I appreciate you. Until next time. 

Mario Zapata es nicaraguense y vino a este país el 19 de septiembre 1978/1979 (no parecía seguro el, y yo tampoco). Viajó en el último vuelo de PanAmerica desde Nicaragua a LAX y llegó a las 4:30 de la tarde. Él es mi papá.

Mis padres se divorciaron cuando yo tenía cuatro años y pasé toda mi vida tratando de averiguar lo que pasó. Todavía no estoy segura, pero tenía el deseo de conocer un poco mejor a mi papá porque no crecí en la misma casa que él. Él satisfizo mi curiosidad sentándose conmigo y permitiéndome hacerle una serie de preguntas como  "cuál es tu película favorita" hasta "cuál es el mejor elogio que has recibido". Pasé el mes de septiembre intentando conseguir 1000 escuchas y descubri que este podcast no se trata realmente de eso. Se trata de compartir cuentos y documentar historia. Dentro de 20 años, esta entrevista seguirá existiendo. Esta conversación es una cápsula del tiempo y estoy muy agradecida. Gracias a todos los que escucharon todos mis episodios. Los amo. Los aprecio. Hasta la proxima.



Sep 26, 202346:29
This is EZ with Naomi - Immigration/Work-Life Balance

This is EZ with Naomi - Immigration/Work-Life Balance

Naomi Cruz and I were at the same party several years back when I found out she was an immigration lawyer. I had so many questions and only asked a few for fear of coming off as a total creeper. I stalked her for years - attending several of the same parties, co-hosting the games at our mutual friend’s baby shower, and finally luring her onto the podcast as part of my higher, diabolical plan. She has no idea about this, so please don’t tell her. Naomi is Oaxacan, has been a lawyer for 10 years, and owns an immigration law firm with a partner. She joined the podcast to drop knowledge about immigration and school us commoners on what the situation really is. We all know that these types of careers can be taxing, so of course I asked Naomi what she does to unwind when she’s not using her law powers to help the Latino immigrant population of Los Angeles. What I found is that Naomi can do it all. She is the poster woman for work-life balance. If you’ve always been curious about immigration and/or work-life balance, this episode is for you. If you’ve never been curious about it, it’s for you too. Press play, boo.

Sep 12, 202351:39
This is EZ with Lauren - Only Children/Virgos
Aug 29, 202341:59
This is EZ with Raymundo - Being Central American

This is EZ with Raymundo - Being Central American

Raymundo Archila is a filmmaker in every sense of the word. He’s a storyteller, writer, director, and editor, who is currently promoting his short film “Manhunt,” also known as “La Siguanaba,” based on a Central American urban legend. He joined the podcast to talk about his experience as a Salvi youth in a predominantly white and Asian neighborhood. His connection to his Central American roots went from non-existent to hyper-present. He stays involved in the Salvadoran community and seeks to promote his culture in everything he does. Some of his friends refer to him as the Salvadoran senator and it checks out. Press play to hear us bond over our Salvi/Nica roots. 

You can find Raymundo Archila @raymundoarchila. 

This episode was edited by Alex Zamora (@zamoravisuals)



Aug 08, 202351:38
This is EZ with Trish - Travel

This is EZ with Trish - Travel

If I had a quarter for every time Trish and I got drunk and sang karaoke together, I'd have about five dollars. We are living proof that you can bridge the gap between boomers and millennials. Ralph used to house sit for Trish long before I came along, since she was busy traveling the globe during the summer months. Her black lab Marlon (RIP), was the goddog at our wedding. Patricia "Trish" Soto is an artist, retired teacher, singer, future belly dancer, lover of culture & travel, and a true citizen of the globe. She has been to 58 countries and shows no signs of slowing down. This episode will make you want to book that flight to that place you've been wanting to visit forever. Press play and then follow Trish on Instagram at @travelontrish, to witness some of her global adventures.
Jul 25, 202352:16
This is EZ with Nereida - Crossroads

This is EZ with Nereida - Crossroads

Has life ever brought you to a crossroads? A place in your timeline where you’ve had to decide whether to stay in the same old relationship, job, apartment, or friendship - or take a leap of faith and try something totally different and outside of your comfort zone?

Nereida Gutierrez wears many hats but identifies as an artist, creative, and community organizer. She is a beacon of light and a force to be reckoned with. Relationship struggles and a strong desire to be there for her son drove her to move to LA and become her own boss. Now she answers only to herself, and it’s really awesome to hear about. We talk about quitting jobs, quitting relationships, saying yes to ourselves, and trying to move away from the societal pressures that tell us we have to work and live by a certain set of rules. It’s an amazing conversation, and I’m so excited to share it with all of you. Press play, honey! 

You can follow Nereida at @nerdayduh, which will link you to her artist account @nereidaarts. Her art can be found at @artspacehp. Go check it out!

Jul 11, 202352:18
This is EZ with Erika - A Solo Experience

This is EZ with Erika - A Solo Experience

Work has been insane, I did my first-ever comedy open-mic a few weeks ago, and the truth is that I didn’t have an episode lined up for you. On yesterday’s mental health walk, I decided to record my first-ever solo episode. Topics include but are not limited to inner child work, the stand-up experience, a dance while walking group that I’d like to start, social media, a documentary about Lucille Ball & Desi Arnaz, and Taylor Swift. It’s random. It’s uncensored. It’s untamed. It’s me. And I hope you like it. Press play!

Jun 27, 202335:56
This is EZ with Rosario - Being Afraid & Doing It Anyway

This is EZ with Rosario - Being Afraid & Doing It Anyway

Rosario Calatayud-Serna is a founder, administrator, non-profit professional, and a creative. She’s also one of the coolest people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. Rosario joined the podcast to talk about her beginnings in the nonprofit world, and opening a business in Huntington Park at the height of the pandemic. When I asked Rosario how she continued to pursue one goal after another without fear, she assured me that fear was present the entire time, but she did all of it anyway. We talk about building the muscle in our minds that allows us to say “not today, fear” over and over again. This podcast inspired the hell out of me, and I hope it does the same for you. Press play! 

Find Rosario on instagram @rorocs @artspacehp @thepophop @latienditaccg. What isn’t she involved in? Am I right?

This episode was edited by the very talented Alexandro Zamora: @zamoravisuals. 

Enjoy!


Jun 13, 202359:41
This is EZ with Nicole Presley - Food. Love. More Food.
May 30, 202354:01
This is EZ with Rachel - Sensitivity
May 16, 202351:26
This is EZ with Nicole - Reparenting Yourself

This is EZ with Nicole - Reparenting Yourself

Nicole Lopez is a proud born and raised SELA activist, community organizer, and congressional candidate. When she's not talking about politics (or pop culture) she loves talking about the importance of prioritizing one's mental health and chasing dreams. Oh, and she loves talking about her dogs! Overall, Nicole loves connecting with other women of color as they work to uplift each other and break generational curses. She graced the podcast with stories about growing up in a traditional Mexican household and learning to become her biggest advocate after dealing with traumatic events in childhood and being hospitalized in 2020. Her insight will make you reflect on whether or not you're showing up for yourself in your own life. If you've ever battled your parents' voices inside your head, this one is for you. Press play!

Apr 18, 202355:32
This is EZ with Dale - Not Having Kids
Apr 04, 202346:56
This is EZ with Danellia - Being Multidimensional

This is EZ with Danellia - Being Multidimensional

Danellia Arechiga aka Dane Real is the multidimensional mami. She’s a birth worker, a mother, a teacher, a healer, a musician, a writer, and one of the most free and confident women I’ve ever met.  We met back in the early 2000s and lost touch for many years until we reconnected on social media. Her Instagram captions were like warm hugs for my soul. I told her while we were recording, that I wasn’t stalking her, but I kinda was. She was and still is, so authentic. Her energy is absolutely electric. She creates healing and nurturing spaces for women, and last year I had the privilege of having her guide me through a vaginal steaming. I’m so grateful that she agreed to join the podcast to talk about sexual wellness, solo dance parties, saying yes to creativity, and learning to love the skin you’re in. Women like Danellia are a gift, and I’m so glad I get to share her with all of you. What are you waiting for? Press play!


How you can connect with Dane:

Instagram @themultidimensionalmami : https://www.instagram.com/themultidimensionalmami/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@themultidimensionalmami

Twitter: @_DaneReal: https://twitter.com/_DaneReal

Personal website: https://www.danelliaarechiga.com/

Mar 21, 202301:07:44
This is EZ with Mark (again) - Slowing Down in 2023

This is EZ with Mark (again) - Slowing Down in 2023

The podcast is back, and so is Mark, for this introductory episode about slowing down in the new year. I know that it’s March, but it’s never too late or too early to start implementing healthier habits and behaviors. I talk about shoveling food into my mouth at an alarming rate, having road rage, and the benefits of my break from social media at the end of last year. If you’re feeling burnt out and tired of living life in the fast lane - take a load off, boo. Stop what you’re doing and go have a listen. So great to be back! Happy March, everyone!

Host: Erika Zapata

Guest: Mark Morales

Editing: Thomas Zipperer

Mar 07, 202346:36
This is EZ with Aileen - 28 Years of Friendship

This is EZ with Aileen - 28 Years of Friendship

The season finale of This is EZ with Friends has arrived and I am honored to share it with all of you. Aileen Paola Villarreal Castillo and I have been friends since 1994. We shared a love of Titanic, Leonardo DiCaprio, Harry Potter, The Backstreet Boys, and Back To The Future. Our braces and hairy legs set us apart from the rest and we owned our awkward pre-teen phase like a couple of divorcees who didn’t need to take shit from anyone.

Aileen got in trouble in the fourth grade for writing “Aileen DiCaprio” on all of her assignments. That’s the least of her accomplishments. Homecoming queen. University of Notre Dame graduate. Senior Personnel Manager for the Notre Dame Football team. Director of Media Relations for the Detroit Tigers. PR & Client Services Director at Independent Sports & Entertainment. Ex-girlfriend of Kevin Richardson (she dumped him). We killed two bottles of champagne and talked about being kids together, coping with imposter syndrome, and learning to appreciate the gifts we bring to the world. It’s a beautiful episode. It’s a beautiful friendship.

Thank you to my very sweet and wonderful community of supporters. It has truly been a pleasure churning out these episodes. Nothing gives me more joy than sitting down with the people I love and getting deep with it. If you’ve read this far, I’ll let you in on a little secret. At the end of this episode (you have to push through the jingle at the end), there are SIX WHOLE MINUTES of bonus content. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it. Podcast out!

Oct 25, 202201:06:14
This is EZ with Jess - Becoming a Mom at 43

This is EZ with Jess - Becoming a Mom at 43

Jessica Estrada always knew that she wanted to be a mom. At age 40, she made peace with her single life and even contemplated having a baby on her own. Shortly thereafter, she met the love of her life. They got pregnant within their first six months of dating and, sadly, Jess miscarried. She took the experience in stride and hoped that she would get another shot at motherhood. At 43, Jess is engaged and just gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, Lucas. She joins the podcast to talk about the raw truths of pregnancy and motherhood. Topics include an at-home birth plan, a complicated labor, breastfeeding, mom guilt, sleep deprivation, and all the joys that motherhood has to offer. Press play for some refreshing honesty.

Oct 11, 202247:43
This is EZ with Marissa - Marriage, Health, and Vulnerability
Sep 27, 202242:58
This is EZ with Jake - Depression & Suicidal Thoughts
Sep 14, 202250:50
This is EZ with Mark - Getting Older, Dealing with Grief & Accepting Your Own Mortality (It's funny, I promise)

This is EZ with Mark - Getting Older, Dealing with Grief & Accepting Your Own Mortality (It's funny, I promise)

Mark Morales is a Texas native, an ex-musician, and definitely not my old boss. He and I caught up after COVID times and busy lives. Mark talks about losing his mom during the pandemic and coming to terms with his mortality after her death hit his family pretty hard. It’s not a sad podcast at all, because Mark is a glass-half-full kinda guy. He’s funny, he’s smart, and he’s one of the coolest people I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. If you don’t catch yourself giggling through this episode, you can have your money back. Topics include: hair loss, getting older, selling breast milk, and reincarnation. Need I say more?


Aug 30, 202256:45
This is EZ with Christina - Dating in 2022

This is EZ with Christina - Dating in 2022

Christina Arzate spent a few years getting to know herself before setting up her Hinge profile, joining a sexual empowerment group, and dying her hair purple and pink. Christina wears wrestling t-shirts to dates and she DGAF.  Her optimism about dating in these dark times is a breath of fresh air. She shares funny dating stories and real issues that plague a dating culture that values casual relationships over long-term connections. Spoiler alert: everyone is lying about this. In this episode, we coin the term “raw dogging people with your emotions.” It’s funny, it’s provocative, and it’s just plain old truth. Do yourself a favor and press play.

You can find Christina Arzate's sexual development coach at @iamjocelynsilva on Instagram. 

Aug 19, 202201:31:26
This is EZ with Monica - Self Development, Therapy & Emotional Hard Ons
Jul 20, 202228:57
This is EZ with Erik V. - Coming Out/Just Being
Jul 05, 202201:30:06
This is EZ with Kim: Toxic Relationships

This is EZ with Kim: Toxic Relationships

Erika and Kim talk about their long, toxic relationships in their early twenties. Being young and in love isn’t easy, especially if you’re with the wrong person. Listen to what they did, how they learned, and what they know now.

Jun 07, 202236:42
This is EZ With Friends - Trailer
Jun 02, 202204:31