Welcome to episode 127 of The American Dream in the Eyes of Immigrants Podcast. I am your host, Heidy De La Cruz, and I am on a mission to change the narrative of immigration one immigrant story at a time!Lesley and Stacy, sisters and first-generation Americans, share their experiences growing up in an immigrant household shaped by their Azorean heritage. From navigating bicultural identities to redefining parenting, mental health, and success, they offer two distinct yet deeply connected perspectives on the first-generation experience.In this episode, Lesley and Stacy reflect on their upbringing, the influence of an eight-year age gap, and how cultural expectations shaped their roles within the family. They open up about being raised between two cultures, the responsibilities placed on first-generation children, and the differences in parenting styles—highlighting how each sister experienced their childhood in unique ways.With Love, HeidyConnect with Lesley and Stacy:Podcast ***I’m excited to share a trailer for The Grad School Femtoring Podcast, hosted by Dra. Yvette Martinez-Vu. This award-winning show supports first-gen BIPOC students and professionals in navigating grad school, careers, and productivity in sustainable, values-aligned ways. Give it a listen and grab Yvette’s free Sustainable Productivity Playbook plus curated podcast playlist here: https://creative-trailblazer-5062.kit.com/29b17bb6a4Looking for a tax preparer for the 2026 season? Get your taxes done with me and the Dedicated Tax Pros Family! Send me an email for a free estimate: [email protected] You can now become an official supporter of The American Dream in The Eyes of Immigrants podcast for just $10 a month!Your support helps cover production costs, ensuring we continue bringing powerful immigrant stories to life. And as a thank you, you'll get exclusive access to:✨ Behind-the-scenes content🎙️ Special Q&A sessions with me🔓 Ad-free episodes!  If this podcast has inspired you, moved you, or made you feel seen, this is your chance to be part of its growth. Your support truly makes a difference!Sign up now and join our exclusive community on Substack!!! 💛 Check out the full list of different ways you can support the podcast.  *This podcast is sponsored by Ir Al Sol SwimwearCapital BPGFar From Home PodcastKaza Law ImmigrationFor sponsorship opportunities, send an email to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected] a one-time donation here: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=2C3JDALUGTS6E Start your podcast in 6-weeks or less with The V.O.I.C.E. Method Podcast Launch Course! Learn everything from tech, podcast hosting sites, editing, Podcast SEO, and more! Find out more information here. And if you refer a client to me and they sign up for 1:1 Podcast Launch Coaching, you will receive $50!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.