Shows
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 23: Mirna Eusebio Lithgow (Part 2 of 2)In this episode of the Blazing Ember podcast, we continue our conversation with Mirna Eusebio Lithgow, diving into the final five strategies from her book, Leap Out of Your Lane, to help you embrace adaptability, build resilience, and take bold career leaps. Mirna shares how shifting your mindset and stepping outside your comfort zone can open unexpected doors to success. We also explore the importance of mentorship, perseverance, and staying true to your values as you navigate your leadership journey. Get ready for powerful insights and real-world strategies to ignite your growth and leadership journey!2025-04-1527 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 22: Mirna Eusebio Lithgow (Part 1 of 2)In this episode, Mirna Eusebio Lithgow, CEO of LeapView Group LLC, shares her inspiring journey from door-to-door sales in the Dominican Republic to leading initiatives for Fortune 500 companies. Drawing from her book, Leap Out of Your Lane. Mirna shares three key strategies for success: the importance of self-awareness and compassion, highlighting that while many believe they are self-aware, only a small percentage truly are; grit and courage, which she encapsulates in the 3 Ps—passion, pivot, and perseverance—emphasizing the challenge of pivoting beyond societal expectations; and being a constant learner by implementing a growth mindset, encouraging listeners to view chal...2025-04-0332 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 21: Eduardo PenalverIn this episode of Blazing Ember Podcast, Maria Fernandez and Diana Santos sit down with Eduardo Peñalver, president of Seattle University, for a powerful conversation on career evolution, student activism, and leadership in academia. Eduardo shares his unconventional path from aspiring doctor to legal scholar, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and mentorship in shaping opportunities. Reflecting on his experiences as a student activist at Cornell, he highlights the impact of Latino advocacy, the complexities of campus protests, and the ongoing need for diversity and inclusion in higher education. His journey serves as an inspiring testament to the power o...2025-03-1139 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 20: Tanya K. HernándezIn this episode, law professor Diana Tanya Hernandez shares her inspiring journey from her upbringing in New York City to her current role at Fordham Law, emphasizing the importance of following one's passions and intuition over conventional definitions of success. The discussion highlights the challenges Latino lawyers face, particularly the low representation of Latinas, and underscores the vital role of mentorship and support networks like Lawtina. Hernandez also addresses misconceptions about critical race theory, framing it as an essential tool for understanding systemic racial disparities, while discussing her impactful book, Racial Innocence: Unmasking Latino Anti-Black Bias and the Struggle...2025-02-1847 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 19: Valeria AloeIn this Blazing Ember episode, Valeria Aloe shares her journey from a successful 20-year career in brand management to becoming an author and speaker after experiencing burnout in 2016. Her story, centered on the Latino challenges of gender bias and cultural influences in corporate spaces, sparked a powerful discussion on unlearning limiting beliefs and embracing self-worth. The conversation explores personal and professional growth, the evolving impact of Gen Z in the workforce, and the importance of fostering inclusive leadership within the Latino community.2025-01-3032 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 18: Karla SanchezIn this episode, Karla Sanchez shares her inspiring journey from clerking for a federal judge to becoming the first Hispanic partner at Patterson Belknap and serving as Executive Deputy Attorney General for Economic Justice in New York. The discussion explores the transformative experience of a former lawyer who left the legal field to travel the world, highlighting the importance of prioritizing personal values over societal expectations. Karla also discusses the founding of the Cafecito Network, a supportive community for Latina and Hispanic women lawyers, which has grown to 1,500 members. You will gain insights on navigating career transitions, the impact...2024-12-0343 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 17: Moe Vela (Part 2 of 2)In this second episode with Moe Vela, Diana and Maria explore his journey to launch multiple companies and serve as a lawyer while maintaining his continued focus on the universal power of love and authenticity. Moe's insights underscore the importance of character and integrity over external success, inspiring listeners to be true to themselves in all aspects of life. The conversation also delves into embracing flexibility, confronting internal struggles, and supporting diverse voices. Moe also shares his newest venture, Unicorn Hunters, which he created to provide meaningful opportunities for minority entrepreneurs, and inspires listeners to be ready to live...2024-11-1234 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 16: Moe Vela (Part 1 of 2)Trigger warning: This episode contains references to themes of self-harm and suicide, which some individuals may find distressing. If you need help, please call or text 988, Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, for help.In this Blazing Ember podcast episode, Diana and Maria welcome Moe Vela, CEO of MoeVela LLC, celebrated for his pioneering roles as the first Hispanic American, Latino, and LGBTQIA senior advisor to Vice Presidents Joe Biden and Al Gore. Moe shares profound reflections on his Texas roots, the powerful influence of his Latino heritage, and the family support that fueled his ambitions, emphasizing the values of...2024-11-0155 min
Blazing Ember Podcast Episode 15: Maria Melendez (Part 2 of 2)In this episode, Maria Melendez returns to share powerful insights on advancing diversity within the legal profession. She centers on a global mindset, fostering inclusion and engaging diverse individuals. She critiques the U.S.'s often-insular approach to diversity, calling for intentional and expansive strategies. She emphasizes mentorship's critical role in empowering women and underrepresented groups, advocating for confidence and visibility as essential tools for professional success.2024-10-2938 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 14: Diana and Maria Kickoff Season 2!In this first episode of Season 2 of the Blazing Ember Podcast, Maria and Diana return after a brief hiatus to launch a new series of episodes during Hispanic Heritage Month 2024. They share updates on their busy professional lives, with Maria leading education initiatives, moving into a new home, and Diana teaching AI legal issues, speaking, and completing a leadership program. Reflecting on season 1, they highlight how their guests’ authenticity, stories, and career growth made a lasting impact. The hosts invite listeners to stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on Latinos/Hispanics in leadership and personal development.2024-09-2412 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 13: Maria Melendez (Part 1 of 2)In another inspirational Blazing Ember podcast episode, Maria Melendez, former Chief Diversity Officer and retired partner at Sidley Austin LLP, delves into her career journey from computer science to law, shedding light on challenges faced by Latinas in leadership roles and the importance of DEI initiatives. She underscores the value of diverse perspectives in client service, employee motivation, and fostering inclusive work environments, challenging the misconception that DEI efforts are a zero-sum game. Maria also addresses concerns about the defunding of DEI initiatives, emphasizing the need for collaboration and understanding to drive meaningful progress in global DEI efforts. Stay...2024-04-0934 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 12: Pilar Ramos (Part 1 of 2)In this episode of the Blazing Ember Podcast, we feature Pilar Ramos, General Counsel at Televisa Univision, whose professional voyage encompasses pivotal career shifts, various countries and cities, and deep insights. From her formative years at a law firm to her past role at MasterCard, Pilar shares the essence of adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning. We explore the intricate dance of negotiation skills, the art of embracing change, and the significance of humility in leadership. Join us as we unravel the layers of Pilar's career, offering a beacon of guidance for aspiring legal luminaries.2024-03-2643 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 11: Diego CarvajalIn this Blazing Ember Podcast episode, we unravel a rich tapestry of discussion with Diego Carvajal, from his personal migration story; to dealing with being an undocumented immigrant; to the complexities of Latino/a identity and representation in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) discussions, or lack thereof. Diego discusses his journey from an attorney to a DEI consultant, and shares some advice for young professionals, emphasizing authenticity and how to contribute to a better society.2024-03-0534 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 10: Paula EdgarIn this episode, we delve into the significance of Black History Month, personal branding, and the impact of systemic racism. Paula Edgar, CEO of PGE Consulting Group, shares her inspiring journey from law school to chief diversity officer to company owner. Emphasizing self-awareness and strategic focus, Paula highlights the role of personal branding in countering biases and shaping impactful lives.2024-02-2040 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 9: Adrienne Valencia GarciaIn this podcast episode, Adrienne Valencia Garcia, Senior Vice President, Deputy General Counsel, Commercial for Cengage Group, shares her inspiring career journey from aspiring pediatrician to successful lawyer. The discussion delves into the significance of networking, seizing opportunities, and receiving constructive feedback, especially for lawyers of color. The episode also explores challenges and strategies for processing feedback in professional settings, the experience of being a Latina in the technology field, and the importance of representation in driving influence.2024-02-0638 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 8: Roberto Concepcion Jr.Join us in this captivating episode of Blazing Ember Podcast, where we unravel the dynamic world of diversity in the law, authentic leadership, and personal journeys. Employment Counsel at Hearst, Roberto Concepcion Jr. engages us in a thought-provoking dialogue that spans Roberto's latest role, his journey to becoming a father and children's book author, and insightful discussions on challenges in the legal industry, as well as the importance of trust, vulnerability, and staying grounded.2024-01-2332 min
Blazing Ember Podcast Episode 7: Diana Santos and Maria Fernandez Welcome to first episode of 2024 of the Blazing Ember Podcast! In this recording, hosts Maria Fernandez and Diana Santos take you behind the scenes as they share personal anecdotes that drive their commitment to this podcast and supporting the Latinx/Hispanic community. Join them as they candidly explore the challenges encountered during the podcast's launch, touching on perfectionism and the slow progress for diverse communities. Stay tuned for a passionate conversation on the lack of diversity in the legal profession, where they highlight the urgent need for inclusivity and equity. This is a podcast episode filled with insightful reflections...2024-01-0934 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 6: Maria-Leticia Ossa Daza (Part 2 of 2)In this latest episode, we continue our conversation with Maria-Leticia Ossa Daza and explore her personal inspiration, the challenges faced by immigrants, and the incredible work of Aid for Life in providing humanitarian aid to migrants. Maria Leticia, in addition to being the founding partner for the firm’s Latin America Practice, is also a talented writer for La Republica. She shares her journey, revealing how writing became a powerful creative outlet during difficult times. Discover the profound importance of persistence and the belief that nothing is impossible.2023-12-1920 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 5: Maria-Leticia Ossa Daza (Part 1 of 2)Join us as Maria-Leticia Ossa Daza, partner and chair of the Latin American practice at Willkie Farr and Gallagher, shares her inspiring journey from defending others in childhood to a career in law. In this episode, Maria-Leticia discusses the vital role of mentoring, the cultural barriers faced by Latinas, and the need for organizations to authentically embrace diversity. Stay tuned for another episode with Maria-Leticia in Episode 6.2023-12-0524 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 4: Jose Ramon GonzalezIn yet another amazing podcast episode, Jose Gonzalez delves into the keys to career advancement and mentorship, stressing the significance of advocating for oneself and pushing boundaries. Emphasizing the continuous pursuit of knowledge, Jose highlights the vital role of learning in advancing one's professional journey. The conversation also explores Jose's contributions to the Latino community through organizations like LatinoJustice and the HNBA's Poder25 initiative, shedding light on the challenges faced while recognizing the immense promise and potential for growth within the community.2023-11-2132 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 3: Ed Estrada (Part 2 of 2)In this thought-provoking episode, Ed Estrada dives into the risks of leaving a high-paying job and the challenges within law firms. He stresses the importance of tech-savviness in the legal field and the need for diversity, advising associates to excel by going the extra mile. Ed's inspiring words encourage listeners to take career risks, reflect on their goals, and seek guidance from experienced mentors.2023-11-0638 min
Blazing Ember PodcastEpisode 2: Ed Estrada (Part 1 of 2)Ed Estrada recounts his remarkable journey from being a first-generation college student who faced adversity to ultimately becoming a successful law firm leader. His story of grasping opportunities, fostering a robust network, and ascending to a partnership at Reed Smith underscores the significance of calculated risks and networking in the professional world. With unwavering passion, Ed urges listeners to seize control of their own happiness and blaze their unique paths to success.2023-10-2331 min
Blazing Ember PodcastIntroducing: Blazing Ember PodcastIn the Blazing Ember podcast, Diana and Maria bring you the voices of trailblazing Latinos - innovative changemakers who have shattered and continue to shatter boundaries. These conversations will ignite your passion, broaden your horizons, and leave you inspired to seize your own extraordinary potential. Join Maria and Diana as they celebrate the brilliance and resilience of Latino leaders and create a gateway to connect with these remarkable individuals! Follow them now to hear new episodes of Blazing Ember, and visit their website, BlazingEmber.com, You can also find Diana and Maria on Instagram on @blazingemberpodcast.2023-10-1501 min