Permission to Reinvent with Norma Rapko

On this episode of Yo Quiero Dinero, Jannese chats with Norma Rapko, who proves that creativity and faith can change your life. Norma went from being a high school dropout battling anxiety and depression to becoming a multi-million dollar inventor, author, and creator of the revolutionary Crystyler tool—featured in 1,100+ Michael’s stores and on HSN!

Norma’s story is a masterclass in resilience, self-belief, and breaking cultural expectations. She opens up about growing up as a first-gen Mexican-American in L.A., overcoming mental health struggles, and learning how creativity can literally rewire your brain. We also talk about the power of networking, owning your story, and redefining what success looks like on your own terms.

This convo is your permission slip to chase your wildest ideas — even if no one else believes in them yet. 💡✨

✨ You’ll Learn:

[02:17] Growing up first-gen in L.A. — how Norma’s family business and work ethic shaped her entrepreneurial mindset

[04:40] Turning pain into purpose — how she faced anxiety, depression, and dropping out of high school and still built a new path

[07:03] From crafts to cash — how selling picture frames at a local fair led to $3K in one day and a nationwide business

[11:48] The birth of The Crystiler — how a tedious task became a million-dollar invention 💎

[13:29] “We’re all inventors” — why the best businesses are born from your personal problems

[14:38] Why creativity makes you uncontrollable (and why society tries to silence that power)

[17:33] How art and creativity can rewire your brain and support mental health, backed by neuroscience 🧠

[23:06] The divine $25K connection — how faith and community opened doors for her invention

[27:05] Norma’s real talk: nothing worthwhile happens overnight — consistency is key

[32:34] Networking for introverts — how to show up, give value, and attract the right people

[41:08] The power of storytelling and authenticity in connecting with your audience

[42:06] Only 2% of Latina inventors hold patents — and why Norma is on a mission to change that 🇲🇽

[45:08] Redefining success — what “enough” looks like when you build on your own terms

[53:39] Norma’s message to her younger self: “Love yourself, believe in yourself, and know it’ll all work out.” 💖

👉 Connect with Norma Rapko:

• 🌐 Website: normarapko.com
• 📸 Instagram: @normarapko
• 💫 Join Creativa The Movement — a free creativity & journaling program on her site

💌 If this episode lit a fire in you, share it with your comadres and tag us @YoQuieroDineroPodcast!

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