Podcast: Episode 140: Deborah Santana: Loving the Fire

June 5, 2026

On this episode, Laura speaks with author and activist Deborah Santana about her new memoir, Loving the Fire: Choosing Me, Finding Freedom—a story of awakening, courage, and the transformative power of finding one’s voice.

Deborah shares the arc of her life from growing up as the daughter of pioneering interracial parents to her years alongside legendary musician Carlos Santana. While she embraced many roles—partner, mother, and supporter—this conversation centers on the pivotal moment when she chose to step forward fully as herself, reclaiming her voice and redefining her purpose.

At the heart of this episode is Deborah’s commitment to uplifting others, particularly women and BIPOC communities. She speaks about how her personal awakening led her into meaningful, impact-driven work—from co-founding Do A Little to supporting education initiatives like Daraja Academy and contributing to cultural preservation through the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Her journey illustrates how finding one’s voice is not only a personal liberation, but a pathway to collective empowerment.

Grounded in stories of resilience, heritage, and spiritual growth, Deborah’s story is a call to anyone ready to move beyond old roles, speak their truth, and engage in work that uplifts and transforms lives—starting with their own.

To learn more about Deborah, visit deborahsantana.com.