March 14, 2024 • 25 mins
Afro-Latino Travels with Kim Haas is a radically different program from anything on TV today. Each half-hour episode captures the heart and soul of Afro-Latino culture throughout the Americas by taking an adventurous dive into the history, art, music, dance, cuisine education, sports, and environmental conservation that African descendants brought to Central and South America and the Caribbean. Through the lens of culture and compassion, Host Kim Haas will examine the unique role that Africans played in building countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.
RESOURCES
- Find the show on CreateTV: Afro-Latino Travels with Kim Haas - Create TV or your local PBS station.
- Website: www.travelswithkimhaas.com
- Facebook: facebook.com/KimHaasTravels
Want more? Follow Jill's travels, view itineraries, read travel articles, and listen to podcast episodes at Global Journeys with Jill Dutton.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:01):
Welcome to Global Journeys with Jill Dutton, the
podcast where we embark on ajourney through culture and
place, one fascinating story ata time.
I'm your host, jill Dutton, anavid traveler and writer,
passionate about exploring theworld and uncovering the unique
tales of the people I encounteralong the way.
Join me as we delve into theheart of destinations, offering
(00:24):
an insider's perspective throughthe captivating narratives of
individuals who shape theircommunities.
Whether it's chatting with adistillery owner crafting
artisanal spirits, an anglercasting lines in remote waters
or a chef mastering the flavorsof a region, each episode offers
a glimpse into their world andexpertise.
(00:45):
Stick around till the end ofeach episode to discover more
about my travels and writingadventures.
In the meantime, get ready tobe inspired, enlightened and
transported to distant lands onGlobal Journeys with Jill Dutton
.
In today's episode of GlobalJourneys with Jill Dutton, we
meet Kim Haas and learn abouther television series
(01:07):
Afro-Latino Travels with KimHaas.
This groundbreaking series isdedicated to uncovering the
vibrant Afro-Latino cultureacross Latin America and is set
to premiere its second season,located in Colombia.
Hosted by Kim Haas, apassionate traveler and
executive producer, the show hasalready made waves with its
(01:27):
two-part special on Costa Rica.
Now viewers are invited toembark on an exciting journey to
discover Colombia'sunderrepresented Afro-descendant
population and the breathtakingnatural beauty that the country
has to offer.
The season premiere ofAfro-Latino Travels with Kim
Haas in Colombia will airnationally on CREATE TV and
(01:49):
locally on PBS stations.
Colombia, known for itsstunning landscapes and diverse
cultures, provides the perfectbackdrop for the next leg of Kim
Haas' journey.
With a rich tapestry ofheritage, colombia boasts a
significant Afro-Columbianpopulation that has been
underrepresented for far toolong.
As Kim explores the country,viewers will be captivated by
(02:11):
the blend of history, music, art, cuisine and the resilient
spirit of Colombia'sAfro-descendant community.
In a world that is becomingincreasingly connected, it is
crucial to recognize andcelebrate the diverse cultures
that make up our global tapestry.
According to the Pew ResearchCenter, an astonishing 25% of
(02:31):
Latin America's nearly 600million people have African
ancestry.
Yet the contributions andexperiences of Afro-Latinos have
often been overlooked ormarginalized.
Afro-latino Travels with KimHaas aims to rectify this by
shedding light on the remarkablestories and achievements of
Afro-Latinos throughout theregion.
(02:53):
Kim Haas, the executiveproducer, host and creator of
Afro-Latino Travels with KimHaas, has been active in
Afro-Latino issues for more thana decade and is the founder of
the most Afro-Latinos, a blogcelebrating Afro-Latino culture.
Kim speaks fluent Spanish,italian and Portuguese.
She is passionate about herwork with Afro-Latino Travels
(03:17):
and Kim is extremely proud to beone of the upcoming few black
female travel hosts on publictelevision, leading the path for
more to follow.
Join me in welcoming Kim Haasto Global Journeys with Jill
Dutton.
Kim, thank you so much forjoining me today and I'm eager
(03:40):
to learn more about yourtelevision show, what led to its
creation and about yourfascinating travels.
Really, I'm excited to learnmore about this, so thank you
for joining me.
Speaker 2 (03:49):
Oh, thank you so much .
Speaker 1 (03:51):
I really appreciate it, your show Afro-Latino
Travels with Kim Haas.
It's so unique, so I'm curiouswhen and how did you first
develop the idea for Afro-LatinoTravels with Kim Haas?
Speaker 2 (04:03):
Yeah, no thanks.
You know what, at least 10years ago, and it kind of grew
out of, or I had this ideabecause I was traveling
throughout Latin America and Iwas going to Venezuela and
Brazil and Cuba and Puerto Rico,and I'm seeing all these people
(04:23):
who look like me, and then I'mturning on Spanish-language
television and I'm seeing no onewho looks like me.
And yeah, and there was a real,you know, there's a real
disconnect.
There was a real lack ofrepresentation, tremendous.
And I just thought about allthese incredible people that I
(04:45):
was meeting, that I was seekingout because I love the arts, so
I was meeting dancers andwriters and chefs and musicians
and all these wonderful peopleof African descent in these
countries.
And yet when I look at Spanishtelevision, it's like nowhere to
be found.
And I just thought what anabsolute loss for all of us as
(05:08):
human beings when we don't getto meet and learn about everyone
.
And so that became kind of mymission.
That's fantastic.
And when was this?
Well, this was Then.
You got the idea.
At least I'm sorry, go ahead.
Speaker 1 (05:24):
What you were saying and just when did you get the
idea?
Speaker 2 (05:27):
At least 10 years ago .
So it's been, yeah, at least 10years ago.
Speaker 1 (05:32):
Fantastic.
And then the first show just itrecently launched.
Speaker 2 (05:37):
So this is the first show of the second season
Colombia.
The first season featured CostaRica, so we did two episodes.
We shot two episodes in CostaRica and San Jose, the capital,
and in Limón.
And I just love in Costa Ricathey say pura vida, and so I
love saying pura vida.
(05:58):
It's kind of like it just catchoff for all kind of all good
things.
You know, pure life, I love it,I love pura vida.
Speaker 1 (06:05):
Oh, that's wonderful.
So what was it that inspiredyour interest in Latin America
more broadly?
Speaker 2 (06:10):
Yeah.
So I like to, you know, tellthe story that my grandmother
took me to Acapulco, mexico,when I was about six or seven
years old, and someone in thehotel lobby asked me did I want
to learn how to count numbersuno a vento, one to 20 in
Spanish?
And so I said sure, and thatwas it.
(06:31):
I said, from that moment on, Iwas hooked.
I wanted more language, moreculture, travel, yeah, and so my
grandmother took me to Hawaiiand, you know, we traveled and
it just really opened my eyes tothe glories of travel and
meeting people from all over theworld.
(06:51):
I just love it.
I mean, to this day I'm still,you know, enamored with meeting
people from all over, and sothat's how it got started.
So, thanks to my grandmotherand this Perk Exchanger, oh,
100% I agree.
Speaker 1 (07:06):
I'm also a travel writer and high enough.
This podcast evolved from mewanting to share culture in
place through the stories of thepeople that I meet, so I agree
with you 100% that it just itchanged your life.
Mine started with a trip when Iwas a teenager to Europe, but
meeting people, learning abouttheir foods and their cultures
and everything it just literallychanged your outlook and your
(07:27):
perception and everything.
So I'm so happy to hear aboutwhat you're doing.
So, speaking of food, what are?
Are there any particularfavorite dishes that you've
tried during your travels thatyou now enjoy making at home?
You know who did you learn itfrom and how do you make it?
Speaker 2 (07:42):
Oh my gosh.
So I guess one, one of myfavorite, the tortilla española,
and it's.
Are you familiar with it, joe?
Speaker 1 (07:51):
I am not but it's a side story.
I spent time in La Parísimawith a couple who she taught us
to some really incrediblerecipes, but go ahead with yours
.
Speaker 2 (08:01):
Yeah, no, I love the tortilla española.
It's a simple kind of.
The basic is the egg and potato, and it's kind of like if
you're familiar with a fritataor quiche without the crust, and
so it's kind of like a thickpotato pie with just the egg and
that's the potato, is the basic, yeah, and then there's all
(08:22):
kinds of you know you can bindwhat's been it sometimes or some
other filling but, and so whenI lived in Spain, junior year in
college in Sevilla, I livedwith the Pantococ family and the
mother, catalina Nina Nucca deCastro I love her name.
She used to make tortillas.
I just loved them and it's justa simple dish of eggs and
(08:46):
potatoes, but so which is sogood, so delicious, so I would
try and make them at home, andstill try and make them with my
husband.
We'll make them.
So that's still a favorite ofmine, you know, all these years
later, after living in Spain,and I love traveling to Latin
America and having seafood.
(09:07):
So I enjoy seafood.
I don't know about you, joe, Ilove seafood.
Speaker 1 (09:12):
Yeah, I mean Kansas, where you know we have beef.
Speaker 2 (09:15):
So anytime I'm near the coast, it's, it's yeah, so
I'm a big seafood lover, so Ilove that.
One of my favorite things aboutLatin America Whoa, there's so
many, but I love the cuisine andI love seafood.
So, being by, you know, havinga plate of red snapper, maybe
grilled with plantains,depending on what country you're
(09:39):
in, they're called platanos ortostones or patacones in color,
and they're fried twice and sogood, and then just some beans
and rice and overlooking thewater, like on a beach, and that
is like heaven for me.
Yes, absolutely.
Speaker 1 (09:58):
And I'm curious what is the importance you see in
hosting a multilingual?
Speaker 2 (10:02):
show Thank you for that.
I mean, I majored in Spanishundergraduate and graduate
school and also speak Portugueseand Italian.
Oh my gosh, I struggle with it.
Go ahead.
No, no, it's just a great,great love of mine.
But yeah, believe me, one yearin college, one semester, I had
(10:22):
Spanish, portuguese and Italianall that same semester and while
I loved it, you know it wasjust going from one language to
the other and sometimes you knowthey're related because they,
you know, romance languages, butit's still, you know you've got
to still focus, but it wasgreat fun.
But I think being able to, Ilove, you know, being able to
(10:44):
communicate with people in otherlanguages and I think that is
so important and knowing that,you know I'll try.
You know I'll speak to someonein Spanish and you know,
oftentimes they'll look at melike because they're surprised
and speak Spanish, but it justopens the door and to let people
allow them to speak in theiryou know native tongue and
(11:06):
native language and so much moreconnection than that.
Speaker 1 (11:10):
Yeah, so much more connection comes from that than
if you're struggling to.
Speaker 2 (11:15):
Yeah, and I think, even if you don't speak a
language fluently, but if youjust try that's been my
experience people are very, youknow, appreciative and they'll
take note of that that you'retrying.
I don't think you have to gosomewhere and be fluent, but
just you know the basics.
Thank you, please.
You know, good morning, goodafternoon, All those things, I
(11:36):
think, make a huge difference, Iagree.
So, I think, sharing withpeople you know on Afro-Latino
travels and speaking Spanish andI've done a lot of feedback
from people, viewers, who'vesaid oh my gosh, you know, I
want to study Spanish in an hour, I'm going to keep studying
Spanish after seeing the show.
So if I can be an inspirationfor that, fantastic.
Speaker 1 (12:01):
Wonderful and speaking of Afro-Latino.
So, as someone who doesn'tidentify as Afro-Latino yourself
, what is something you learnabout yourself from the show?
Speaker 2 (12:12):
Well, you know what I and first I guess I'm going to
say it, I try to preface thisand say, as far as I know, I am
not have no Afro-Latino lineageheritage.
But I say as far as I know,right, and I think, and I love
that question, because when Itravel to these countries,
(12:33):
whether it's Brazil or Cuba,even though I'm not Afro-Latino,
I mean I feel a connection tothe people and being of African
descent and African-American.
And it's just about if you'refamiliar with the transatlantic
slave route and that's howpeople of African descent wound
(12:54):
up in the United States and thenhow the great majority, 90%,
wound up in Central America, theCaribbean, south America.
So most people of Africandescent actually were taken to
the Caribbean, central America,south America.
So I feel like, you know, it wasjust the boats went for my
(13:15):
family and my ancestors went oneway, went north, and you know
the boats for the other one wentsouth, and I feel that
connection and if I see someone,you know, I speak to.
You know I try and speak toeverybody, but there's that
connection.
When you see someone, I think,who looks like you, you have a
(13:35):
sense of the history, what theymay have gone through, somewhat
of a shared experience and atleast, or you know, knowledge
and respect.
And so, while I'm notAfro-Latino as far as I know, it
means a great deal to me tokind of share this, what I
consider, this bond, and tolearn from them.
Speaker 1 (13:58):
Yes, thank you.
How do you decide whichlocations to travel to and what
themes do you use to tie theepisodes together?
Speaker 2 (14:08):
Yeah, so it's a bit of a.
It's always really interestinghow we select because, trying to
make the long story short, forPBS you have to come with the
shows already produced and readyto air.
So for most of you know, theproductions you see, if I'm not
mistaken, most are not supportedby PBS.
(14:29):
Especially, you know, producerslike myself, I think you know,
maybe like Ken Burns if you'vebeen on longer, you know, get
support from PBS or CPB, theCorporation for Public
Broadcasting.
But in general that means thatthe producers like myself, you
know we work with the countriesand we, you know, we are aided
(14:49):
by their support to help us interms of spotlighting their
countries.
So it requires a bit of youknow.
We talk into the countries tosee if they're interested in the
shows, talking about where we'dlike to go and then, hopefully,
you know, countries havebudgets for the year and I can
tell you when I started this,you know, trying to get the show
(15:12):
up the ground 10 years ago,none of the countries were
interested.
None of the countries in LatinAmerica were interested in that.
We that we pitched wereinterested in in helping us with
the show, and so Costa Rica Ihappened to be at an event and I
saw someone from the Costa Ricatourism board and I started
talking to him about you know,wanting to shoot there and he
(15:34):
was like, oh, that's great, youknow, talk to our PR.
Yeah, you know, talk to our PRfirm.
I did.
They loved it and you know, youthank people for being so
supportive and championing it.
And they said, you know what?
There's a real need for thisand we're going to, you know,
support you and we got theapproval and there you go.
Speaker 1 (15:55):
Oh, that is so fabulous.
It is so fabulous and yourstyle is really.
It's fun and playful and uniqueand interesting.
And so far as the show goes.
Then you've got the Columbiaepisodes that are currently
airing on PBS right andlisteners they can check their
local listings for showtimes.
And then you've got a CostaRica.
Well, there's a Costa Rica tourthat you're going to be leading
(16:19):
.
Is that correct?
Yes, at the end of August.
Speaker 2 (16:21):
Thank, you and then thank you so much, jill.
Yeah, we're, I'm excited.
We led a tour two years ago in22 in July, and it was amazing,
and so we had many other peoplethat you see in the show.
We caught up with them in CostaRica.
(16:41):
So we had Quinn Stunkin, whowas one of Costa Rica's most
revered and Latin America's mostrevered authors.
He gave an amazing presentationabout Costa Rica, its history,
its black history.
We had Daniel South, who's afarmer, a cacao farmer and
(17:05):
chocolate beans, and so we didthat and went to his amazing
farm.
It is just gorgeous, and so wetalked with him, we met with
Daniel.
So there's a lot that we do inkind of following in the
footsteps of the shows, theCosta Rica episodes, and then
we've added some things thisyear.
So we'll be going toTortuguerro, which is the land
(17:27):
of the turtles, and it's anincredible spot.
In Costa Rica that isn't aswell.
It's kind of off the bean pathsomewhat.
Most times people go to thePacific side of Costa Rica, but
we'll be kind of concentratingon the Caribbean, which is where
the highest percentage ofpeople of African descent live,
and we've got some really,really neat things.
(17:49):
We're gonna go meet the Bre Bretribe, an indigenous tribe in
Costa Rica.
So I am super excited and allare welcome.
So we'll have all theinformation on our website.
Speaker 1 (18:02):
I'll include a link, definitely in our show notes as
well, but travelwithkimajosscomis where they can find it if
they wanna just go thereimmediately.
Absolutely, thank you.
Wonderful.
Well, I'm excited to hear aboutyour tours.
And then, as far as the show,let's chat briefly about the
Cali Columbia episode that'sairing now.
Speaker 2 (18:22):
And thank you.
So we have two episodes Cali,columbia, and then the Pacific
coast.
And this is an area peoplearen't.
People are really traveling toColumbia, which is, I'm so glad
to see.
After you know, columbia had ahistory, really a civil war, and
(18:42):
so now Columbia is coming intoits own, which is really nice,
and there's so many wonderfulplaces in Columbia, so a lot of
people now are traveling toCartagena or Bogota, the capital
, and Cali is kind of instead ofright now it's kind of off the
bean path as well, less wellknown, but it's got its own
(19:03):
special vibe and rhythm and,speaking of rhythm, it's
considered the, or at leastCaliños.
People from Cali consider Calithe capital of Southsup.
So I do a lot of littleSouthsup dancing, visit the
Southsup Museum in the Caliepisode, also go to Petronio
Álvarez Festival and this is afestival every August in Cali
(19:27):
that is named after PetronioÁlvarez, who was an incredible
Afro-Columbian musician, andit's dedicated to really
preserving and celebratingAfro-Columbian traditional music
and the Marineba performerscome in from all over,
particularly the Pacific coast.
That's the region where Cali isand I think it's a celebration.
(19:49):
It seems like a pilgrimagebecause people come in on boats
and because there's a lot ofwaterways and water in the
Pacific area region, but peoplemake it.
I mean, this is really anannual kind of pilgrimage to
Cali, to be in Petronio, toconnect with each other.
It's beautiful and so you'llsee us.
(20:11):
We film there in the Caliepisode.
So there's so much and I thinkColumbia is rightfully so
enjoying just a fabulous momentin time, as it's kind of people
are exploring it and learningabout it and it's an incredible
place with a really richAfro-Columbian tradition.
Speaker 1 (20:31):
Yes, thank you for that.
And the Limón Costa Ricaepisode when does that air?
Speaker 2 (20:37):
So they air throughout the year and,
depending on where viewers arelocated, they can catch them at
different times.
Okay, you can always go to ourwebsite, as you mentioned,
travelswithkimhaascom, and getmore information, or email us
and we'll try our best to figureout where you can catch the
shows.
(20:57):
Or people can also look on ourwebsite, because we allow people
to either rent them or purchasethem for minimal costs.
But the shows air throughoutthe year on PBS as well as
Create TV, which is PBS'lifestyle and travel channel,
and we just had a marathon onCreate, so the two Costa Rica
(21:19):
episodes and the two Colonumbiaepisodes were running and it was
a real pleasure and a realhonor.
Speaker 1 (21:26):
Oh, I bet, I bet I'm excited.
I'm just seeing the one show sofar, so I'm really excited to
go just really catch up as manyas I can, because I'm fascinated
by your troubles and yourinteresting immersion into an
area and meeting the people wholive there.
So thank you.
Well, kim, is there anythingthat I forgot to ask?
Speaker 2 (21:47):
Oh, this is so wonderful and I just so
appreciate it and the work thatyou're doing and connecting us
and making, I think, in the end,hopefully, our world smaller
and we realize that we're allthe same, we all want the same
things and we just may bewrapped in different packages,
but I thank you for thisopportunity.
Speaker 1 (22:08):
Well, kim, thank you.
Thank you so much.
This has just been a pleasurehaving on Global Journeys with
Jill Betten and, like I said,I'm eager to follow your show
and then definitely interestedin your guided tours that you're
gonna be doing too, as well.
Well, that you've already doneone in 2022, but the one you've
got coming up in August.
So, thank you so much, and Ilook forward to just hearing
(22:28):
more.
Speaker 2 (22:29):
Thank you, ¡gray провida.
Speaker 1 (22:34):
Welcome to Global Journeys with Jill Dutton, the
captivating travel podcast thattakes you on an extraordinary
adventure around the world.
I'm your host, jill Dutton, andI am thrilled to be your guide
through the mesmerizing tapestryof cultures, landscapes and
experiences that await us.
Global Journeys with JillDutton is more than just a
(22:54):
travel podcast.
It's an exploration of humanityitself.
Through the power ofstorytelling, we illuminate the
lives of the remarkableindividuals we encounter along
the way, whether it's throughthe eyes of a fishing guide, a
distillery owner, a mixologist,a historian, chef, or even a
farmer.
Each person we meet adds a richlayer to the narrative of
(23:17):
culture and place.
In this podcast, we embark on atransformative journey where
the focus goes beyond thetypical tourist attractions.
Instead, we dive deep into thehearts and souls of the places
we visit, uncovering the hiddengems and untold stories that
make each destination trulyunique.
Join me as we venture off thebeaten path, seeking
(23:40):
authenticity, connection and adeeper understanding of the
world we inhabit.
Together, we'll unravel thetapestry of cultures, one story
at a time.
Although my writing careerbegan in the late 90s, when I
created and launched a wellnesspublication called Evolving
Magazine, since 2015 I've workedas a travel writer on a mission
(24:01):
to seek out the locallycelebrated foods, liquor trends,
outdoor activities and storiesof those I meet along the way.
My work has been published inWine Enthusiast, a far woman's
world, first for women, insiderroad trippers, modern farmer
chilled magazine and many moredigital and print publications.
(24:22):
I'm also the creator of GlobalPlates the people we meet, the
food they eat a syndicatedcolumn.
Creating this podcast is thenext step in my journey of
sharing the stories of thepeople I've met along the way.
So pack your curiosity, leaveyour preconceived notions behind
and let's embark on globaljourneys with Jill Dutton, where
(24:43):
each episode promises toinspire, educate and awaken the
wanderlust within us all.
As we travel on this excitingpodcasting journey together, I
invite you, our incredibleaudience, to be a part of it.
Share your own travel stories,insights and recommendations
with us.
Whether you have a hidden gemin your hometown or a dream
(25:05):
destination that has capturedyour imagination, we want to
hear from you.
Your suggestions will helpshape the future episodes of
Global Journeys, with JillDutton guiding us towards
extraordinary locations andexperiences that deserve a
spotlight.
Remember, this podcast is notabout just the host or the
guests.
It's about the collectiveexploration and discovery that
(25:26):
unites us all as wanderers inthis vast world.
So reach out to us through ourwebsite, social media channels
or email and let your voice beheard.
Send your suggestions to me atJill at Global Journeys with
JillDuttoncom.
I can't wait to hear from you.
Until next time, may yourtravels be filled with endless
(25:47):
curiosity, open-heartedencounters and transformative
adventures.
Life travels, fellow explorers,and keep wandering.
Welcome to Global Journeys with Jill Dutton, the
podcast where we embark on ajourney through culture and
place, one fascinating story ata time.
I'm your host, jill Dutton, anavid traveler and writer,
passionate about exploring theworld and uncovering the unique
tales of the people I encounteralong the way.
Join me as we delve into theheart of destinations, offering
(00:24):
an insider's perspective throughthe captivating narratives of
individuals who shape theircommunities.
Whether it's chatting with adistillery owner crafting
artisanal spirits, an anglercasting lines in remote waters
or a chef mastering the flavorsof a region, each episode offers
a glimpse into their world andexpertise.
(00:45):
Stick around till the end ofeach episode to discover more
about my travels and writingadventures.
In the meantime, get ready tobe inspired, enlightened and
transported to distant lands onGlobal Journeys with Jill Dutton
.
In today's episode of GlobalJourneys with Jill Dutton, we
meet Kim Haas and learn abouther television series
(01:07):
Afro-Latino Travels with KimHaas.
This groundbreaking series isdedicated to uncovering the
vibrant Afro-Latino cultureacross Latin America and is set
to premiere its second season,located in Colombia.
Hosted by Kim Haas, apassionate traveler and
executive producer, the show hasalready made waves with its
(01:27):
two-part special on Costa Rica.
Now viewers are invited toembark on an exciting journey to
discover Colombia'sunderrepresented Afro-descendant
population and the breathtakingnatural beauty that the country
has to offer.
The season premiere ofAfro-Latino Travels with Kim
Haas in Colombia will airnationally on CREATE TV and
(01:49):
locally on PBS stations.
Colombia, known for itsstunning landscapes and diverse
cultures, provides the perfectbackdrop for the next leg of Kim
Haas' journey.
With a rich tapestry ofheritage, colombia boasts a
significant Afro-Columbianpopulation that has been
underrepresented for far toolong.
As Kim explores the country,viewers will be captivated by
(02:11):
the blend of history, music, art, cuisine and the resilient
spirit of Colombia'sAfro-descendant community.
In a world that is becomingincreasingly connected, it is
crucial to recognize andcelebrate the diverse cultures
that make up our global tapestry.
According to the Pew ResearchCenter, an astonishing 25% of
(02:31):
Latin America's nearly 600million people have African
ancestry.
Yet the contributions andexperiences of Afro-Latinos have
often been overlooked ormarginalized.
Afro-latino Travels with KimHaas aims to rectify this by
shedding light on the remarkablestories and achievements of
Afro-Latinos throughout theregion.
(02:53):
Kim Haas, the executiveproducer, host and creator of
Afro-Latino Travels with KimHaas, has been active in
Afro-Latino issues for more thana decade and is the founder of
the most Afro-Latinos, a blogcelebrating Afro-Latino culture.
Kim speaks fluent Spanish,italian and Portuguese.
She is passionate about herwork with Afro-Latino Travels
(03:17):
and Kim is extremely proud to beone of the upcoming few black
female travel hosts on publictelevision, leading the path for
more to follow.
Join me in welcoming Kim Haasto Global Journeys with Jill
Dutton.
Kim, thank you so much forjoining me today and I'm eager
(03:40):
to learn more about yourtelevision show, what led to its
creation and about yourfascinating travels.
Really, I'm excited to learnmore about this, so thank you
for joining me.
Speaker 2 (03:49):
Oh, thank you so much .
Speaker 1 (03:51):
I really appreciate it, your show Afro-Latino
Travels with Kim Haas.
It's so unique, so I'm curiouswhen and how did you first
develop the idea for Afro-LatinoTravels with Kim Haas?
Speaker 2 (04:03):
Yeah, no thanks.
You know what, at least 10years ago, and it kind of grew
out of, or I had this ideabecause I was traveling
throughout Latin America and Iwas going to Venezuela and
Brazil and Cuba and Puerto Rico,and I'm seeing all these people
(04:23):
who look like me, and then I'mturning on Spanish-language
television and I'm seeing no onewho looks like me.
And yeah, and there was a real,you know, there's a real
disconnect.
There was a real lack ofrepresentation, tremendous.
And I just thought about allthese incredible people that I
(04:45):
was meeting, that I was seekingout because I love the arts, so
I was meeting dancers andwriters and chefs and musicians
and all these wonderful peopleof African descent in these
countries.
And yet when I look at Spanishtelevision, it's like nowhere to
be found.
And I just thought what anabsolute loss for all of us as
(05:08):
human beings when we don't getto meet and learn about everyone
.
And so that became kind of mymission.
That's fantastic.
And when was this?
Well, this was Then.
You got the idea.
At least I'm sorry, go ahead.
Speaker 1 (05:24):
What you were saying and just when did you get the
idea?
Speaker 2 (05:27):
At least 10 years ago .
So it's been, yeah, at least 10years ago.
Speaker 1 (05:32):
Fantastic.
And then the first show just itrecently launched.
Speaker 2 (05:37):
So this is the first show of the second season
Colombia.
The first season featured CostaRica, so we did two episodes.
We shot two episodes in CostaRica and San Jose, the capital,
and in Limón.
And I just love in Costa Ricathey say pura vida, and so I
love saying pura vida.
(05:58):
It's kind of like it just catchoff for all kind of all good
things.
You know, pure life, I love it,I love pura vida.
Speaker 1 (06:05):
Oh, that's wonderful.
So what was it that inspiredyour interest in Latin America
more broadly?
Speaker 2 (06:10):
Yeah.
So I like to, you know, tellthe story that my grandmother
took me to Acapulco, mexico,when I was about six or seven
years old, and someone in thehotel lobby asked me did I want
to learn how to count numbersuno a vento, one to 20 in
Spanish?
And so I said sure, and thatwas it.
(06:31):
I said, from that moment on, Iwas hooked.
I wanted more language, moreculture, travel, yeah, and so my
grandmother took me to Hawaiiand, you know, we traveled and
it just really opened my eyes tothe glories of travel and
meeting people from all over theworld.
(06:51):
I just love it.
I mean, to this day I'm still,you know, enamored with meeting
people from all over, and sothat's how it got started.
So, thanks to my grandmotherand this Perk Exchanger, oh,
100% I agree.
Speaker 1 (07:06):
I'm also a travel writer and high enough.
This podcast evolved from mewanting to share culture in
place through the stories of thepeople that I meet, so I agree
with you 100% that it just itchanged your life.
Mine started with a trip when Iwas a teenager to Europe, but
meeting people, learning abouttheir foods and their cultures
and everything it just literallychanged your outlook and your
(07:27):
perception and everything.
So I'm so happy to hear aboutwhat you're doing.
So, speaking of food, what are?
Are there any particularfavorite dishes that you've
tried during your travels thatyou now enjoy making at home?
You know who did you learn itfrom and how do you make it?
Speaker 2 (07:42):
Oh my gosh.
So I guess one, one of myfavorite, the tortilla española,
and it's.
Are you familiar with it, joe?
Speaker 1 (07:51):
I am not but it's a side story.
I spent time in La Parísimawith a couple who she taught us
to some really incrediblerecipes, but go ahead with yours
.
Speaker 2 (08:01):
Yeah, no, I love the tortilla española.
It's a simple kind of.
The basic is the egg and potato, and it's kind of like if
you're familiar with a fritataor quiche without the crust, and
so it's kind of like a thickpotato pie with just the egg and
that's the potato, is the basic, yeah, and then there's all
(08:22):
kinds of you know you can bindwhat's been it sometimes or some
other filling but, and so whenI lived in Spain, junior year in
college in Sevilla, I livedwith the Pantococ family and the
mother, catalina Nina Nucca deCastro I love her name.
She used to make tortillas.
I just loved them and it's justa simple dish of eggs and
(08:46):
potatoes, but so which is sogood, so delicious, so I would
try and make them at home, andstill try and make them with my
husband.
We'll make them.
So that's still a favorite ofmine, you know, all these years
later, after living in Spain,and I love traveling to Latin
America and having seafood.
(09:07):
So I enjoy seafood.
I don't know about you, joe, Ilove seafood.
Speaker 1 (09:12):
Yeah, I mean Kansas, where you know we have beef.
Speaker 2 (09:15):
So anytime I'm near the coast, it's, it's yeah, so
I'm a big seafood lover, so Ilove that.
One of my favorite things aboutLatin America Whoa, there's so
many, but I love the cuisine andI love seafood.
So, being by, you know, havinga plate of red snapper, maybe
grilled with plantains,depending on what country you're
(09:39):
in, they're called platanos ortostones or patacones in color,
and they're fried twice and sogood, and then just some beans
and rice and overlooking thewater, like on a beach, and that
is like heaven for me.
Yes, absolutely.
Speaker 1 (09:58):
And I'm curious what is the importance you see in
hosting a multilingual?
Speaker 2 (10:02):
show Thank you for that.
I mean, I majored in Spanishundergraduate and graduate
school and also speak Portugueseand Italian.
Oh my gosh, I struggle with it.
Go ahead.
No, no, it's just a great,great love of mine.
But yeah, believe me, one yearin college, one semester, I had
(10:22):
Spanish, portuguese and Italianall that same semester and while
I loved it, you know it wasjust going from one language to
the other and sometimes you knowthey're related because they,
you know, romance languages, butit's still, you know you've got
to still focus, but it wasgreat fun.
But I think being able to, Ilove, you know, being able to
(10:44):
communicate with people in otherlanguages and I think that is
so important and knowing that,you know I'll try.
You know I'll speak to someonein Spanish and you know,
oftentimes they'll look at melike because they're surprised
and speak Spanish, but it justopens the door and to let people
allow them to speak in theiryou know native tongue and
(11:06):
native language and so much moreconnection than that.
Speaker 1 (11:10):
Yeah, so much more connection comes from that than
if you're struggling to.
Speaker 2 (11:15):
Yeah, and I think, even if you don't speak a
language fluently, but if youjust try that's been my
experience people are very, youknow, appreciative and they'll
take note of that that you'retrying.
I don't think you have to gosomewhere and be fluent, but
just you know the basics.
Thank you, please.
You know, good morning, goodafternoon, All those things, I
(11:36):
think, make a huge difference, Iagree.
So, I think, sharing withpeople you know on Afro-Latino
travels and speaking Spanish andI've done a lot of feedback
from people, viewers, who'vesaid oh my gosh, you know, I
want to study Spanish in an hour, I'm going to keep studying
Spanish after seeing the show.
So if I can be an inspirationfor that, fantastic.
Speaker 1 (12:01):
Wonderful and speaking of Afro-Latino.
So, as someone who doesn'tidentify as Afro-Latino yourself
, what is something you learnabout yourself from the show?
Speaker 2 (12:12):
Well, you know what I and first I guess I'm going to
say it, I try to preface thisand say, as far as I know, I am
not have no Afro-Latino lineageheritage.
But I say as far as I know,right, and I think, and I love
that question, because when Itravel to these countries,
(12:33):
whether it's Brazil or Cuba,even though I'm not Afro-Latino,
I mean I feel a connection tothe people and being of African
descent and African-American.
And it's just about if you'refamiliar with the transatlantic
slave route and that's howpeople of African descent wound
(12:54):
up in the United States and thenhow the great majority, 90%,
wound up in Central America, theCaribbean, south America.
So most people of Africandescent actually were taken to
the Caribbean, central America,south America.
So I feel like, you know, it wasjust the boats went for my
(13:15):
family and my ancestors went oneway, went north, and you know
the boats for the other one wentsouth, and I feel that
connection and if I see someone,you know, I speak to.
You know I try and speak toeverybody, but there's that
connection.
When you see someone, I think,who looks like you, you have a
(13:35):
sense of the history, what theymay have gone through, somewhat
of a shared experience and atleast, or you know, knowledge
and respect.
And so, while I'm notAfro-Latino as far as I know, it
means a great deal to me tokind of share this, what I
consider, this bond, and tolearn from them.
Speaker 1 (13:58):
Yes, thank you.
How do you decide whichlocations to travel to and what
themes do you use to tie theepisodes together?
Speaker 2 (14:08):
Yeah, so it's a bit of a.
It's always really interestinghow we select because, trying to
make the long story short, forPBS you have to come with the
shows already produced and readyto air.
So for most of you know, theproductions you see, if I'm not
mistaken, most are not supportedby PBS.
(14:29):
Especially, you know, producerslike myself, I think you know,
maybe like Ken Burns if you'vebeen on longer, you know, get
support from PBS or CPB, theCorporation for Public
Broadcasting.
But in general that means thatthe producers like myself, you
know we work with the countriesand we, you know, we are aided
(14:49):
by their support to help us interms of spotlighting their
countries.
So it requires a bit of youknow.
We talk into the countries tosee if they're interested in the
shows, talking about where we'dlike to go and then, hopefully,
you know, countries havebudgets for the year and I can
tell you when I started this,you know, trying to get the show
(15:12):
up the ground 10 years ago,none of the countries were
interested.
None of the countries in LatinAmerica were interested in that.
We that we pitched wereinterested in in helping us with
the show, and so Costa Rica Ihappened to be at an event and I
saw someone from the Costa Ricatourism board and I started
talking to him about you know,wanting to shoot there and he
(15:34):
was like, oh, that's great, youknow, talk to our PR.
Yeah, you know, talk to our PRfirm.
I did.
They loved it and you know, youthank people for being so
supportive and championing it.
And they said, you know what?
There's a real need for thisand we're going to, you know,
support you and we got theapproval and there you go.
Speaker 1 (15:55):
Oh, that is so fabulous.
It is so fabulous and yourstyle is really.
It's fun and playful and uniqueand interesting.
And so far as the show goes.
Then you've got the Columbiaepisodes that are currently
airing on PBS right andlisteners they can check their
local listings for showtimes.
And then you've got a CostaRica.
Well, there's a Costa Rica tourthat you're going to be leading
(16:19):
.
Is that correct?
Yes, at the end of August.
Speaker 2 (16:21):
Thank, you and then thank you so much, jill.
Yeah, we're, I'm excited.
We led a tour two years ago in22 in July, and it was amazing,
and so we had many other peoplethat you see in the show.
We caught up with them in CostaRica.
(16:41):
So we had Quinn Stunkin, whowas one of Costa Rica's most
revered and Latin America's mostrevered authors.
He gave an amazing presentationabout Costa Rica, its history,
its black history.
We had Daniel South, who's afarmer, a cacao farmer and
(17:05):
chocolate beans, and so we didthat and went to his amazing
farm.
It is just gorgeous, and so wetalked with him, we met with
Daniel.
So there's a lot that we do inkind of following in the
footsteps of the shows, theCosta Rica episodes, and then
we've added some things thisyear.
So we'll be going toTortuguerro, which is the land
(17:27):
of the turtles, and it's anincredible spot.
In Costa Rica that isn't aswell.
It's kind of off the bean pathsomewhat.
Most times people go to thePacific side of Costa Rica, but
we'll be kind of concentratingon the Caribbean, which is where
the highest percentage ofpeople of African descent live,
and we've got some really,really neat things.
(17:49):
We're gonna go meet the Bre Bretribe, an indigenous tribe in
Costa Rica.
So I am super excited and allare welcome.
So we'll have all theinformation on our website.
Speaker 1 (18:02):
I'll include a link, definitely in our show notes as
well, but travelwithkimajosscomis where they can find it if
they wanna just go thereimmediately.
Absolutely, thank you.
Wonderful.
Well, I'm excited to hear aboutyour tours.
And then, as far as the show,let's chat briefly about the
Cali Columbia episode that'sairing now.
Speaker 2 (18:22):
And thank you.
So we have two episodes Cali,columbia, and then the Pacific
coast.
And this is an area peoplearen't.
People are really traveling toColumbia, which is, I'm so glad
to see.
After you know, columbia had ahistory, really a civil war, and
(18:42):
so now Columbia is coming intoits own, which is really nice,
and there's so many wonderfulplaces in Columbia, so a lot of
people now are traveling toCartagena or Bogota, the capital
, and Cali is kind of instead ofright now it's kind of off the
bean path as well, less wellknown, but it's got its own
(19:03):
special vibe and rhythm and,speaking of rhythm, it's
considered the, or at leastCaliños.
People from Cali consider Calithe capital of Southsup.
So I do a lot of littleSouthsup dancing, visit the
Southsup Museum in the Caliepisode, also go to Petronio
Álvarez Festival and this is afestival every August in Cali
(19:27):
that is named after PetronioÁlvarez, who was an incredible
Afro-Columbian musician, andit's dedicated to really
preserving and celebratingAfro-Columbian traditional music
and the Marineba performerscome in from all over,
particularly the Pacific coast.
That's the region where Cali isand I think it's a celebration.
(19:49):
It seems like a pilgrimagebecause people come in on boats
and because there's a lot ofwaterways and water in the
Pacific area region, but peoplemake it.
I mean, this is really anannual kind of pilgrimage to
Cali, to be in Petronio, toconnect with each other.
It's beautiful and so you'llsee us.
(20:11):
We film there in the Caliepisode.
So there's so much and I thinkColumbia is rightfully so
enjoying just a fabulous momentin time, as it's kind of people
are exploring it and learningabout it and it's an incredible
place with a really richAfro-Columbian tradition.
Speaker 1 (20:31):
Yes, thank you for that.
And the Limón Costa Ricaepisode when does that air?
Speaker 2 (20:37):
So they air throughout the year and,
depending on where viewers arelocated, they can catch them at
different times.
Okay, you can always go to ourwebsite, as you mentioned,
travelswithkimhaascom, and getmore information, or email us
and we'll try our best to figureout where you can catch the
shows.
(20:57):
Or people can also look on ourwebsite, because we allow people
to either rent them or purchasethem for minimal costs.
But the shows air throughoutthe year on PBS as well as
Create TV, which is PBS'lifestyle and travel channel,
and we just had a marathon onCreate, so the two Costa Rica
(21:19):
episodes and the two Colonumbiaepisodes were running and it was
a real pleasure and a realhonor.
Speaker 1 (21:26):
Oh, I bet, I bet I'm excited.
I'm just seeing the one show sofar, so I'm really excited to
go just really catch up as manyas I can, because I'm fascinated
by your troubles and yourinteresting immersion into an
area and meeting the people wholive there.
So thank you.
Well, kim, is there anythingthat I forgot to ask?
Speaker 2 (21:47):
Oh, this is so wonderful and I just so
appreciate it and the work thatyou're doing and connecting us
and making, I think, in the end,hopefully, our world smaller
and we realize that we're allthe same, we all want the same
things and we just may bewrapped in different packages,
but I thank you for thisopportunity.
Speaker 1 (22:08):
Well, kim, thank you.
Thank you so much.
This has just been a pleasurehaving on Global Journeys with
Jill Betten and, like I said,I'm eager to follow your show
and then definitely interestedin your guided tours that you're
gonna be doing too, as well.
Well, that you've already doneone in 2022, but the one you've
got coming up in August.
So, thank you so much, and Ilook forward to just hearing
(22:28):
more.
Speaker 2 (22:29):
Thank you, ¡gray провida.
Speaker 1 (22:34):
Welcome to Global Journeys with Jill Dutton, the
captivating travel podcast thattakes you on an extraordinary
adventure around the world.
I'm your host, jill Dutton, andI am thrilled to be your guide
through the mesmerizing tapestryof cultures, landscapes and
experiences that await us.
Global Journeys with JillDutton is more than just a
(22:54):
travel podcast.
It's an exploration of humanityitself.
Through the power ofstorytelling, we illuminate the
lives of the remarkableindividuals we encounter along
the way, whether it's throughthe eyes of a fishing guide, a
distillery owner, a mixologist,a historian, chef, or even a
farmer.
Each person we meet adds a richlayer to the narrative of
(23:17):
culture and place.
In this podcast, we embark on atransformative journey where
the focus goes beyond thetypical tourist attractions.
Instead, we dive deep into thehearts and souls of the places
we visit, uncovering the hiddengems and untold stories that
make each destination trulyunique.
Join me as we venture off thebeaten path, seeking
(23:40):
authenticity, connection and adeeper understanding of the
world we inhabit.
Together, we'll unravel thetapestry of cultures, one story
at a time.
Although my writing careerbegan in the late 90s, when I
created and launched a wellnesspublication called Evolving
Magazine, since 2015 I've workedas a travel writer on a mission
(24:01):
to seek out the locallycelebrated foods, liquor trends,
outdoor activities and storiesof those I meet along the way.
My work has been published inWine Enthusiast, a far woman's
world, first for women, insiderroad trippers, modern farmer
chilled magazine and many moredigital and print publications.
(24:22):
I'm also the creator of GlobalPlates the people we meet, the
food they eat a syndicatedcolumn.
Creating this podcast is thenext step in my journey of
sharing the stories of thepeople I've met along the way.
So pack your curiosity, leaveyour preconceived notions behind
and let's embark on globaljourneys with Jill Dutton, where
(24:43):
each episode promises toinspire, educate and awaken the
wanderlust within us all.
As we travel on this excitingpodcasting journey together, I
invite you, our incredibleaudience, to be a part of it.
Share your own travel stories,insights and recommendations
with us.
Whether you have a hidden gemin your hometown or a dream
(25:05):
destination that has capturedyour imagination, we want to
hear from you.
Your suggestions will helpshape the future episodes of
Global Journeys, with JillDutton guiding us towards
extraordinary locations andexperiences that deserve a
spotlight.
Remember, this podcast is notabout just the host or the
guests.
It's about the collectiveexploration and discovery that
(25:26):
unites us all as wanderers inthis vast world.
So reach out to us through ourwebsite, social media channels
or email and let your voice beheard.
Send your suggestions to me atJill at Global Journeys with
JillDuttoncom.
I can't wait to hear from you.
Until next time, may yourtravels be filled with endless
(25:47):
curiosity, open-heartedencounters and transformative
adventures.
Life travels, fellow explorers,and keep wandering.
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