What happens when you do everything you were told would make you successful, but still feel like something is missing?

In Season 2, Episode 8 of The Missing Book Podcast, I sit down with psychotherapist and author Yesenia to talk about her book, The Cycle Ends with Me. And let me tell you, this conversation touched places in my own story that I’m still learning to understand.

As two Dominican women, we talk honestly about growing up in hardworking immigrant families, the pressure to succeed, and the feelings we sometimes learned to carry quietly. We can love our parents, appreciate their sacrifices, and still acknowledge that there were moments when we needed more emotional support.

Yesenia shares how being called “La Nerviosa” at just six years old shaped the way she saw herself, and how she began to understand the little girl behind that label. Together, we explore perfectionism, abandonment, family expectations, and what it means to give ourselves the love, reassurance, and compassion we needed growing up.

There are tender moments, a little laughter, and reflections that made me pause. We also talk about joy, remembering what made us feel free, allowing ourselves to take up space, and understanding that healing takes time.

I hope this conversation leaves you feeling seen and encourages you to be a little kinder to yourself. You deserve care, community, and moments of happiness along the way. 💛

🎧 Listen and reflect with us: What brings you joy?

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About The Missing Book Podcast:

Hosted by Luz Maria Mack, The Missing Book Podcast highlights authors, illustrators, educators, and creatives whose stories deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated. Each episode explores the inspiration behind the work, the publishing journey, and the impact stories can have on readers, families, and communities.