Shows
The Latino MajorityInside the Mind of a Billion-Dollar Builder: Fernando De Leon’s StoryFernando De Leon counts himself as one of the luckiest guys in the world. The Mexican American billionaire grew up in Brownsville, Texas, and Matamoros, Mexico, graduated cum laude from Harvard, and began his career as an analyst at Goldman Sachs before launching Leon Capital Group. The humble real estate company in Texas has grown into a powerhouse with businesses across financial services, healthcare, and real estate. Along the way, De Leon hit billionaire status and receiving a self-made score of 10 from Forbes—putting him in the ranks with twenty other people with the...
2025-07-1028 min
The Latino MajorityDavid “Big Papi" Ortiz’s New Game: Philanthropy, Rum, and Redefining SuccessEveryone knows famed Boston Red Sox player David Ortiz as Big Papi. He made a name for himself in the batter’s box as a designated hitter, winning seven Silver Slugger awards, joining the 500 Home Run Club, and helping the Red Sox break its 86-year World Series drought—and win two more World Series before his retirement in 2016. But his work didn’t end when he stepped off the field for the final time. Big Papi transformed into a philanthropist and entrepreneur, drawing on his dedication for family, community, and the Dominican Republic. His fo...
2025-06-1834 min
The Latino MajorityThe Alumni Society’s Ricardo Anzaldua Is a Coalition BuilderIf anyone knows the power behind convening Latinos to make an impact, it’s Ricardo Anzaldua. His impulse to organize and bring Latinos together began early while growing up in New Mexico and South Texas. In high school as the Chicano movement gained traction, he became a strong advocate for Mexican American civil rights and a community organizer. He took that passion to elite institutions like his alma mater, Brown University where he advocated for diversifying student admissions and increased support for students of color. While earning his law degree at Harvard, he helpe...
2025-06-0537 min
The Latino MajorityNationwide’s JJ Perez Believes in the Power of EducationWe are shaped by those who came before us and, in turn, we help shape the lives of those who come after us. Nationwide’s Juan José (JJ) Pérez knows this all too well. He grew up watching his father attend law school at night while working two jobs, making sacrifices while Perez and his siblings were young to not only better provide for their family in the long term but also be an example of what they could achieve. Those lessons continue to resonate with Perez today, both as president for Natio...
2025-05-1443 min
The Latino MajorityAlex López Negrete Advocates for Reflective MarketingForty years ago, Alex López Negrete saw an opportunity to represent the Hispanic market and provide strategic direction to some of the biggest names in corporate America. The Houston-based Lopez Negrete Communications, cofounded with his wife Cathy, is now the largest independently owned and operated Hispanic advertising firm in the country. López Negrete has been recognized over the years for his leadership in the space. Most recently, he was inducted into the American Advertising Federation Advertising Hall of Fame Class of 2025. His work is far from over. Latinos are the fastest-growing segment with un...
2025-04-3041 min
The Latino MajorityBonus Episode: VIDA’s Felida Villarreal Propels the Rio Grande Valley Toward SuccessFelida Villarreal understands firsthand the cultural and familial expectations of the Rio Grande Valley residents. The powerhouse nonprofit leader grew up in the region, earned her degrees at the local university, and continues to empower residents to achieve their own success right in the valley through VIDA and its training programs. Villarreal stepped into the president and CEO role before the age of thirty and has made significant strides for an already strong regional nonprofit in the past three years. She’s grown VIDA’s budget, staff, and program participants. She secured federal funding in part...
2025-04-1633 min
The Latino MajorityAcclaimed Author Marie Arana Changes Perceptions, One Story at a TimeFrom the very beginning, words have been important to Marie Arana. The Peruvian American’s childhood was filled with music and literature, which formed her passion for storytelling and books as she navigated growing up in a bicultural household. Having an American mother, Arana learned to provide a counter narrative to Peruvian perceptions of Americans. Her love of books and writing grew into a literary career: books editor for the Washington Post, the inaugural literary director of the Library of Congress, literary director for the National Book Festival, and champion for editors and writers alike....
2025-04-0235 min
The Latino MajorityJaviera Balmaceda Pascal Proves Latino Stories Are for All AudiencesGrowing up in the ’80s with two working parents, Javiera Balmaceda Pascal often found herself at the movie theater with her younger brother Pedro Pascal. The siblings, raised in Texas and California by parents who had fled Chile, found comfort in the stories they saw on the screen. Where her brother chose to step in front of the camera, Balmaceda pursued shaping narratives instead—with a focus on Latin American storytelling. For the past two decades, the Chilean native has helped major production companies like HBO Latin America and now Amazon Prime develop successful series and...
2025-03-1929 min
The Latino MajorityCarla Vernón Transforms Brands—and HerselfCarla Vernón imagines a future that isn’t here yet. Her power of imagination has been her guide since childhood, allowing her to see beyond the information available to make decisions with both her head and her heart. The Princeton alum built her brand and leadership expertise at General Mills for almost twenty-two years, brought her vision to Amazon—and then became one of the first Afro-Latina CEOs of a US publicly traded company when she joined the Honest Company in 2023. She saw an opportunity to turnaround the personal care brand while transforming into the l...
2025-03-0542 min
The Latino MajorityIleana Musa Invests in Latino Financial EmpowermentWealth is more than just finances. It’s about securing a legacy. Building a rich and fulfilling life. And Ileana Musa wants to make sure Latinos have every opportunity to build their wealth. She knows firsthand the challenges that come with building wealth. Musa was raised by a single mother, who brought her and her siblings over from Cuba at a young age. She saw her mother in action as an entrepreneur to take care of her family and build a brighter future. Through her work as head of sales at Morgan Stanley Pr...
2024-12-1130 min
Navigating dos MaresVianni Lubus Media Exec InterviewJoin us as Lubus shares her challenging childhood experiences moving from Puerto Rico to Michigan, as well as how her cultural duality has shaped her in adulthood, empowering her to adapt to anything and avoid attachment to material things.Are you raising a bilingual and bicultural child? Add MariVi the Master Navigator to your child’sbookshelf! Click here to read children’s books in English and español.Join Our FamiliaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearemarivi/TikTok: www.tikto...
2024-11-1221 min
The Latino MajorityGovernor Michelle Lujan Grisham Pursues a Brighter Future Being a political trailblazer is in Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s DNA. Her grandfather Eugene D. Lujan was one of the first Hispanic justices of the New Mexico Supreme Court. In 2019, she made history as the first Democratic Latina elected governor in the United States. Lujan Grisham’s successes for New Mexicans—investing in high-quality education from early childhood through college, reaching historic economic growth, setting ambitious climate goals—come from the relationships she’s built during her forty-year career. She is honest about the challenges that lie ahead and the conversations that need to happen.
2024-10-2337 min
The Latino MajorityMonica Gil Lives Out Family Values to Create a Brighter FutureGrit. Perseverance. Love. Those family values have been and will always be part of Monica Gil, who grew up the youngest of twelve children. She watched her parents and older siblings navigate systems and unspoken rules of the game, trailblazing a path for her to advance. Throughout her career at Nielsen and now at NBCUniversal Telemundo, Gil has always figured out how to reach back to bring Latinos along with her. To remove that “hassle factor” for Latinos and Latinas, and to remove barriers for future generations to get into spaces where they are few and...
2024-09-2545 min
The Latino MajorityDolores Huerta Fights the Good FightAdvocacy is at the heart of everything Dolores Huerta does. It was the influence of her mother’s community activism and her initial time as a teacher that spurred her lifelong journey as a community organizer. She met César Chavez while serving in the Stockton Community Service Organization, and the pair went on to launch the United Farm Workers union in 1962. That was only the beginning for Huerta. She became the most visible spokesperson for the union, securing seemingly impossible feats that allowed California farm workers to wield economic power. She challenged gender discrimination wit...
2024-08-1429 min
The Latino MajorityHow Avocados Shape American Identity with Alvaro Luque For Alvaro Luque, marketing strategies that promote avocados and celebrate the rich heritage of the Latino community will always be the way to go. With a career marked by groundbreaking initiatives, including AFM's historic Super Bowl advertising campaigns, Alvaro has solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the marketing world. His dedication to authenticity and cultural resonance has propelled AFM to unprecedented success. He’s also sparked meaningful conversations about diversity, inclusion, and representation. Alvaro shares insights into the complexities of bicultural identity, the evolving landscape of marketing to a multicultural nation and the transformative power...
2024-07-3151 min
The Latino MajorityThe Story of Latinos in America: Must-Listen Moments from Our ShowIn every episode of The Latino Majority, we ask our guests a significant question: "If you were to author the story of Latinos in America today, what would be the theme and title?" Over fifty episodes later, we've gathered profound reflections from a diverse array of voices. This special compilation highlights some of the most impactful moments, showcasing the resilience, creativity, and dynamism of the Latino community. Whether you're a longtime listener or tuning in for the first time, we hope these stories inspire and resonate with you. Enjoy!
2024-07-1601 min
The Latino MajorityStacie de Armas and the Data Driving the Latino MarketplaceFor Stacie de Armas, a trailblazer in media and cultural representation, her passion for exploring the intricate layers of Latino identity in modern America is unmistakable. As a first-generation Cubana, Stacie brings a wealth of multicultural insights to her work as the Senior Vice President of Diverse Intelligence & Initiatives at Nielsen. Stacie's work has influenced major brands and media networks and deepened the understanding of the Latino community's cultural impact in the US. She continues to drive conversations and initiatives that celebrate the richness of Latino culture while empowering individuals to embrace their identities in an e...
2024-07-0346 min
The Latino MajorityEmbracing Nonlinear Career Paths with José TavarezFor José Tavarez, leadership isn't just about climbing the corporate ladder; it's about challenging the status quo and advocating for oneself in the face of uncertainty. Raised in a family where hard work and respect were foundational, Tavarez's career path wasn't linear but marked by pivotal moments of determination and perseverance. One such moment came during the merger of Bank of America and Merrill Lynch, where Tavarez took a risk by asking for a meeting with the new boss, setting him on a trajectory of leadership that defied expectations. As one of the top leaders in finance, Tav...
2024-06-1945 min
The Latino MajorityBonus Episode: Own Your Narrative and Change Your Life with Bobby Herrera 50th EPISODE: For Bobby Herrera, storytelling isn't just an expression – it's a movement, mobilizing hearts and minds with each powerful chapter of the Latino narrative. Born to immigrant parents in New Mexico, Herrera's upbringing instilled in him the power of storytelling, shaping his perspective on leadership and community. Today, as the President and CEO of Populus Group and an esteemed author, Bobby continues to champion the underdog narrative, encouraging others to embrace their unique stories. As the first Latino member of the Gray Miller Agency and best-selling author of The Gift of Struggle, Bobby ignites hope a...
2024-06-0537 min
The Latino MajorityEmpathy in Action with Megan HoganWith grace and vision guiding her, Megan Hogan has been a voice for the voiceless. From her roots in pro bono clinics to her current role as Global Head of Talent and Chief Diversity officer at Goldman Sachs as well as her volunteer work, she has championed the causes of countless individuals in their journey to find stability and community. Our host, Pedro Guerrero, discovers the foundation of Megan’s determination and strength in this episode.
2024-05-2141 min
The Latino MajorityLuis Miranda and the Latino VoteFor Luis Miranda, Jr., transitioning from his Puerto Rican roots to his current position as a prominent figure in American politics and culture has been extraordinary. With a background of resilience and determination, Luis has become a trailblazer in both the public and private sectors. As a political strategist, philanthropist, and author, he has dedicated his life to advocating for Latino voices and championing the American dream. Miranda, Jr. has left an indelible mark on American society throughout his career. From his pioneering work in political strategy to his unwavering commitment to social justice, he has consistently f...
2024-05-0842 min
The Latino MajorityLeading From the Heart with Oscar MunozFor Oscar Munoz, leadership is more than simply steering companies to success. To him, it’s about connecting with people on a human level. As the former CEO and chairman of United Airlines, Oscar's leadership prioritized building trust and inclusivity. His genuine concern for others stem from his experiences, making him a relatable and inspiring figure in the corporate world. Our host, Pedro Guerrero, details Oscar's journey into the human side of leadership, uncovering the secrets to success in an ever-changing world.
2024-04-2438 min
The Latino MajorityFidel Vargas Shapes Tomorrow’s LeadersFrom the youngest elected mayor to CEO of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, Fidel Vargas is dedicated to educational access and community empowerment. As a former recipient of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund turned CEO of the HSF, Fidel's tireless efforts have reshaped the landscape of scholarship programs and catalyzed opportunities for countless young Latino scholars nationwide. Through strategic advocacy and innovative programs, Fidel has built pathways to success for underrepresented communities and opportunities for younger generations. Today, Vargas continues to drive a new perception home: Latino students in the United States are in charge...
2024-04-1051 min
The Latino MajorityJulie Chavez Rodriguez and the Latino LegacyFor Julie Chavez Rodriguez, becoming a dynamic leader in today’s America could be her destiny as the granddaughter of civil rights icon Cesar Chavez. From her roots in the farmworker movement, Julie has emerged as a pivotal member of President Biden’s re-election campaign and stands among one of the highest-ranking Latinas in the White House. It was her upbringing, Julie says, that instilled dedication and determination in her at an early age. As she navigates her current role in politics, Julie provides a glimpse into the strategic efforts to engage the Latino voter. With...
2024-02-2127 min
The Latino MajoritySandra Velasquez: From Front-Woman to FounderFor Sandra Velasquez, it’s always been about self-worth and self-acceptance. Show up as yourself and be bold about it. In a world that undermines minorities, Sandra aspires to take center stage and make a meaningful impact, not just for herself but also for the Latino community. From her early days as a performer leading sold-out shows to her current role as the founder of the groundbreaking beauty brand Nopalera, Velasquez knows this is a business of survival of the strongest. Sandra has defied conventions while showcasing creativity, resilience, and passion throughout her diverse portfolio, including a Sh...
2024-02-0743 min
The Latino MajorityCarlos Huereca Is Comfortable with the UncomfortableWhen Carlos Huereca immigrated to El Paso at the age of 13, he had no choice but to get comfortable with the uncomfortable. His parents showed him how. It was at the dinner table where they often made tough decisions about their furniture business. Carlos had a front row seat to conversations about financial management and talent recruitment. It was during that time when he learned to heed the words his mother would repeat over and over: “Stay focused and committed.” He still treasures that early education and has used it to propel his career growth. Firs...
2024-01-2440 min
The Latino MajorityMarta Tellado’s Journey from Havana to Hero in the US Capitalist EconomyFor Marta Tellado, memories of the marketplace she used to frequent in Havana, Cuba aren’t just memories — they’re a living paradigm for a better world. They’re a model of an ecosystem where people help each other. And they’re a never-ending source of drive, passion, and perseverance to advocate for others today. From serving as a translator for the older generation, to being a champion for safety and transparency for consumers, to shaping policy in Washington DC while shaping minds with her no-holds-barred book, Marta is the epitome of advocacy in action. As the Pre...
2024-01-1045 min
The Latino MajorityBonus Episode: It’s Family First for David MoralesThe David Morales story is the story of the Morales family. That resonates in no place greater than his recent autobiography, American Familia. In it, Morales digs into his Puerto Rican heritage—not only as a way to emphasize the legacy of his family’s journey to America but to also inspire others within the Latino community to tell their own stories. A devout student of all things Puerto Rico, Morales has been steadfast in his dedication to the island. He shows it through his keen interest in its musical history as well as the many...
2023-12-2737 min
The Latino MajorityBonus Episode: Lou Nieto Keeps a Strategy-First PhilosophyLou Nieto grew up fascinated by strategy. A kid once destined for law school, he devoured battle maneuvers from historic wars and studied chess—a game he still believes doubles as a potent metaphor for life. Nieto’s interest in strategy translated seamlessly to his leadership roles in corporate America, in which he held high-ranking positions with Kraft, Dean, and ConAgra Foods. It was in business where he was able to fully realize his potential as a strategic thinker—someone who could not only revive a faltering company, like he did at ConAgra, but also set it...
2023-12-2048 min
The Latino MajorityRaquel González Invests in High-Impact Work at Bank of AmericaRaquel González doesn’t play witness to the changing Latino narrative, she helps author it. With a career spanning decades at Bank of America, González is not only a leading example of what can be achieved through longevity and commitment to a revered financial institution, she actively invests in Latino entrepreneurs to help give them their own clear vision of success. As market president for Bank of America Silicon Valley and the Hispanic-Latino Strategy Executive for Consumer and Small Business, González focuses on high impact work—whether that’s lending to small business...
2023-12-0634 min
The Latino MajorityWith Blue Beetle, Ángel Manuel Soto Shows the Superhero Strength of LatinidadFor Director Ángel Manuel Soto, Blue Beetle is for his younger self. As a kid growing up in Puerto Rico, Soto didn’t have the opportunity to see an Indiana Jones that looked like him—to see Latinos in heroic spaces of power on the big screen. Through Blue Beetle he set out to change that. His recent blockbuster not only highlights the truth that the Latino community is no monolith—and that it features everyday moments of superhero strength—it also shows how communities too often seen as ghettos are in fact full of rich, tig...
2023-11-1525 min
The Latino MajorityXavier Gutierrez Welcomes Latinos to the Rink“Latinos don’t play hockey.” It’s a phrase that Xavier Gutierrez has heard often since becoming the first Latino to lead an NHL team. As president and CEO of the Arizona Coyotes, Gutierrez sees the massive opportunity in welcoming Latinos to the hockey rink. It’s a vision he shares with friend and team owner Alex Meruelo, the first Latino owner in the NHL. With the Coyotes expanding its presence across Arizona, it’s the perfect place for Gutierrez to be. He leads with a passion for serving the Latino community, which makes up nearly one-t...
2023-11-0242 min
The Latino MajorityMiguel Garza Delivers Food That’s Better for YouThe story of Siete Family Foods starts with a challenge: how to better manage an autoimmune disease through dietary transformation while staying connected to your culture. Miguel Garza watched his sister Veronica find a grain-free solution for tortillas by using almond flour, which she would then sell to family and friends in Laredo, Texas. Fresh out of law school and inspired by the entrepreneurial culture in Austin, Garza saw an opportunity to expand Veronica’s side hustle into a full-time business. Since 2015, Garza has led the family-owned company with the mission of catering to the La...
2023-10-1848 min
The Latino MajorityFor Orlando Bravo, Puerto Rico is a PrivilegeFor Orlando Bravo, the story always starts in Puerto Rico. Even today, as the billionaire founder and managing partner of private equity investment firm Thoma Bravo, he recognizes that where he came from will forever influence where he is. Bravo attributes his meteoric rise in the early 2000s—when he made a name for himself in software acquisitions—to his upbringing in Puerto Rico. His unique journey instilled in him a confidence to think differently in the Wild West of Silicon Valley and to ultimately separate himself from other tech entrepreneurs. Bravo’s incredi...
2023-08-2338 min
The Latino MajorityTeresa Barreira Was Raised to Be a CMOFor most ten-year-olds, managing a grocery store would be daunting. For Teresa Barreira, it was a learning experience. Growing up in a small village where her parents ran three businesses, Barreira discovered what it meant to be entrepreneurial and scrappy. That background—in combination with an unflinching pride in her heritage—informs her today as a marketing and thought leader who sits as Global Chief Marketing Officer at Publicis Sapient. It also inspires her work with younger generations of Latinos who don’t see careers in marketing as viable options. Barreira knows that a diverse perspe...
2023-08-0941 min
The Latino MajorityGuillermo Diaz: “Someone’s Going to Do It . . . Why Not You?”Guillermo Diaz isn’t shy about emphasizing the impact of his time in the Navy. It’s not only where he developed his competence in technology but where he began to truly understand the power in building relationships—the power in fostering a sense of community. As chairman of the Hispanic IT Executive Council and former CIO of Cisco Systems, Diaz can provide plenty of proof of his brilliance in technology. What has his focus today is leveraging that expertise to connect Latinos in the greater business community. He does that as the mastermind behind the di...
2023-07-2645 min
The Latino MajorityCamille Vasquez on Her “Earned Luck” in LawCamille Vasquez didn’t anticipate her fame. Raised by a Cuban mother and Colombian father who met while learning to speak English at a school in Los Angeles, Camille and her sister were given a simple directive early on: focus on your education. And so they did. According to Vasquez, that resulted in one of two options: doctor or lawyer. She chose the latter—her sister the former—and started down a path that led her to representing Johnny Depp in a highly publicized defamation trial against his ex-wife Amber Heard. It wasn’t a pred...
2023-07-1233 min
The Latino MajorityFor Rosanna Durruthy, DEI is Nothing NewRosanna Durruthy recently celebrated six years at LinkedIn. Over the course of her tenure as VP of Global Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging, she’s not only led countless empowerment initiatives at the social media giant—she’s had a front-row seat to the multicultural evolution of a global workforce. That’s not something she could claim 30 years ago. When Durruthy began her career, the role of chief diversity officer wasn’t a certainty. Even at the most prominent corporations, in the most widespread industries, DEI was not a priority. Durruthy never saw that as a limitati...
2023-06-2849 min
The Latino MajorityPart 2: Merrill Lynch’s Jen Auerbach and Kenneth Correa Talk Latino Wealth Management and Growth2-Part Episode: Recognizing the Latino impact on the American and global economy is nothing new for the audience of The Latino Majority podcast. According to studies by the Latino Donor Collaborative, if the Hispanic/Latino community was its own country, it would be the fifth largest economy in the world, ahead of the UK, India, and France. Having two finance experts on The Latino Majority allows us the opportunity to dig deeper into our effect on the economy and how we see the path forward for Latinos taking shape. Much of that path i...
2023-06-2131 min
The Latino MajorityPart 1: Merrill Lynch’s Jen Auerbach and Kenny Correa Talk Latino Wealth Management and Growth2-Part Episode: Recognizing the Latino impact on the American and global economy is nothing new for the audience of The Latino Majority podcast. According to studies by the Latino Donor Collaborative, if the Hispanic/Latino community was its own country, it would be the fifth largest economy in the world, ahead of the UK, India, and France. Having two finance experts on The Latino Majority allows us the opportunity to dig deeper into our effect on the economy and how we see the path forward for Latinos taking shape. Much of that path is l...
2023-06-1424 min
The Latino MajorityAdela Cepeda Will Hold You AccountableA powerful Latina in the business of financial advisory, Adela Cepeda fought tooth and nail to have her voice heard by men hoping to drown her out. Now she’s here to hold them accountable. As a founder and president of her own influential firm—plus a consistent boardroom presence—Cepeda recognizes that the early hurdles she overcame, and the difficulties her Colombian parents faced, acted as strong lessons in perseverance. But she doesn’t wish for younger generations of Latinas to face those same hardships. Instead, she wants her experiences to serve others. She wants to...
2023-05-3139 min
The Latino MajorityEmilio Estefan: “Music is What Saved Me”When Emilio Estefan emigrated from Cuba in the 1960s—eventually settling in Miami—it wasn’t by choice . . . it was by necessity. Even at a young age, Estefan understood he’d have to work hard for his freedom, for his family’s freedom. That work came in the form of music. From the moment his uncle gifted him a $77 accordion, Estefan recognized that music would be the key to unlocking his own potential and showcasing the power and invention of Latino culture in America. Today, as a musician and producer who’s worked with the likes of Jen...
2023-05-1742 min
The Latino MajorityLili Gil Valletta, Make D&I a Mindset, Not an InitiativeFor Lili Gil Valletta, it’s simple: diversity and inclusion is good for business. It’s what she preaches as a loyal champion of cultural intelligence—a concept that focuses on the awareness, understanding, and application of cultural data into everyday business. Too often corporations make short-sighted decisions as a means of chasing diversity metrics and quotas. Valletta, a proud Colombiana, has devoted 20 years of her career to educating the C-suite that an inclusive approach will allow their business to grow. If they want to remain relevant in an increasingly multicultural corporate world, they need to acc...
2023-05-1032 min
The Latino MajorityWe Are The Latino Majority When we set out to produce The New Majority podcast, we wanted to create a space that amplifies the voices of accomplished Latino leaders whose stories are not readily told by the mainstream media. Three remarkable seasons later and having spoken with some the most influential Latino executives in America—as well as important allies of our community—we’ve begun to see patterns emerge. There are underlying themes running through each episode of The New Majority and in the lives of the podcast’s central heroes. The desire to prove people wrong, to buck conventi...
2023-05-0305 min
The Latino MajorityThe Latino Majority Welcomes Vice President Kamala Harris There are few better seats at the table than the one next to the president of the United States. As vice president, Kamala Harris recognizes that privilege. And like the influential Latinos and Latinas featured on The Latino Majority, she recognizes it as a result of those underrepresented leaders who came before her. Those who walked into spaces of corporate and political power knowing they would be judged and undervalued—but did so with their chins up and shoulders back. Her story has long been one of resolve. Magnified not only by her ascent to become the first female vice presiden...
2022-11-0323 min
The Latino MajorityArturo Nuñez, Living a Career of CuriosityArturo Nuñez is a wizard at translating marketing strategy across cultures and populations. Currently the chief marketing officer at NuBank—a rising fintech bank based in Brazil—the born storyteller has been in the business for over three decades, with stops at PepsiCo, Diageo, Nike, and Apple. Nuñez’s ambition for learning about different cultures is authentic and inspiring, but even more important is his passion to embed himself in each of those cultures for the sake of telling an emotional and captivating story. That passion is unmatched. “In challenge there’s always opportunity...
2022-10-1234 min
The Latino MajorityTanya Reu-Narvaez, Pre-Approving the Impact of Latino HomeownershipTanya Reu-Narvaez lives her life by a simple but powerful mantra: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Growing up in an apartment building owned by her grandparents–where her sprawling family lived together under one roof–she learned about both the stability and the opportunity homeownership offers. And the layered effect it can have on generations of a single family. As Chief People Officer at real estate powerhouse Anywhere, Reu-Narvaez wants to create the same sense of community she felt when her aunts, uncles, and cousins would spill out into the hallways...
2022-10-1229 min
The Latino MajorityJosé E. Feliciano, Capitalizing on Success to Serve OthersFor José E. Feliciano, success starts with failure. Prior to co-founding prominent private equity firm Clearlake Capital in 2006, Feliciano persevered through failures that forced him to innovate rather than recede into the background. Today, as a powerful investor in Silicon Valley, he sees his story reflected in countless technology start-ups. Businesses where failure is celebrated—because out of challenge often comes invention. Feliciano has experienced enormous growth with Clearlake, and he’s paid that success forward by founding the philanthropic Supercharged initiative and claiming a seat on the board of trustees for the Smithsonian’s Nationa...
2022-10-1239 min
The Latino MajorityCharo Henriquez, Embracing a Changing NewsroomCharo Henriquez is comfortable pursuing the job that doesn't exist. A leader in digital journalism and newsroom strategy at the New York Times, she recognizes her value lies in the keen ability to solve for opportunities in a digital-first environment. To keep ahead of the curve and build new roles. It was early in her career as a journalist in Puerto Rico that Henriquez became comfortable with the idea of disruption and innovation at a legacy publication. And in identifying the rise of digital journalism during the decline of print, she also identified incredible possibility.
2022-10-1238 min
The Latino MajoritySylvia Acevedo, Engineering Two SolutionsAs a Girl Scout selling cookies, Sylvia Acevedo was taught by her troop leader to be adaptable, persistent, and inventive—to never lose sight of a sale until she’s heard “no” three times. That early lesson informed the NASA alum and former Girl Scouts CEO to bring two solutions into a room: the one that everyone expects, and the one that innovates. Growing up in New Mexico, Acevedo discovered her track to engineering early on thanks to an aptitude for science and math. It was during that nontraditional path—one in which she was forced to...
2022-10-1243 min
The Latino MajorityDr. Miguel Román, Telling the Climate StoryThere’s one key consistency Dr. Miguel Román has observed across the countless photos he’s seen of our planet taken from space: our natural environment has no borders. As a leading mind in climate science, Dr. Román has made it his mission to illustrate the effects of climate change through meaningful stories rather than onslaughts of data. And he often uses his native Puerto Rico as his protagonist. The island’s susceptibility to hurricanes and its reputation as a “front line community in the face of climate,” means that it’s consistently been forced to help itself...
2022-10-1240 min
The Latino MajorityRaul Anaya, Banking on Latino EntrepreneursRaul Anaya first witnessed the drive and resilience of the Latino business owner when his father opened Anaya’s Body and Paint Shop in Brownsville, Texas. As President of Business Banking at Bank of America—and now as a member of the board of trustees for the Smithsonian’s Museum of the American Latino—Anaya continues to witness the power of Latinos when they want to build something. And exactly how hope and optimism guides us as a community of entrepreneurs. Anaya has seen it over the course of three decades. Bank of America has not only...
2022-10-1237 min
The Latino MajorityBonus Episode: Gary Acosta, Sharing the Wealth in EntrepreneurshipEarly in his life as an entrepreneur, Gary Acosta believed that building a professional network was a fundamental necessity to best serve his career—and his career most of all. That his network was ultimately in place to benefit his ventures, first and foremost. Today, as CEO and cofounder of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) and cofounder of L’Attitude—an annual event that connects the world’s most powerful Latino business leaders—Acosta believes in the importance of sharing power above all else. He recognizes that his own success as a “serial entrepreneur...
2022-09-2238 min
The Latino MajorityBonus Episode: Dr. Geraldo Cadava, Teaching a Lesson in Latino HistoryFor Dr. Geraldo Cadava, the wide diversity of the Latino experience is something to be honored rather than categorically dissected. Only once we respect the countless origin stories of our community can we even begin to understand the sincere, deeply held beliefs of each unique individual. A scholar and author, Cadava’s deep family history informs his own experiences. He has often looked to his grandfather—a man of Colombian and Filipino descent who was born in Panama—for a rich text of stories about the Latino experience in America. In unpacking the cultural and political complexities within...
2022-09-0754 min
The Latino MajoritySecretary of Education Miguel Cardona, Teaching a Servant MentalityMiguel Cardona felt the pride of service long before being appointed the United States Secretary of Education. As the highest-ranking educator in the country, Cardona knows that his Latinoness has helped him thrive. Over the course of his term, he aims to trumpet that same message to an underrepresented population of Latino teachers and students. That their bilingualism and biculturalism are, in fact, superpowers.
2022-04-1425 min
The Latino MajorityMike Madrid, Shaping the Political PerspectiveA Republican thought leader and cofounder of the Lincoln Project, Mike Madrid leverages his unique Latino perspective to provide commentary on a country in the midst of an enormous cultural transformation. He knows that as Armerica’s complexion continues to change, the political party that properly addresses the education divide in the Latino community and invests in what he describes as “an aspirational agenda for a multiracial working class” will be of best service to the country.
2022-04-1437 min
The Latino MajorityCarolina Ceballos, Courageous in ComplianceAs a child, Carolina Ceballos stood witness to her mother’s determination and fearlessness in the face of unprecedented familial stress. Today, as deputy chief compliance officer at Facebook Payments, Ceballos carries on the lessons of her youth. Whether she’s navigating issues of money laundering or fraud or human trafficking, she works tirelessly to ensure that the transactions in the global financial world bring people together instead of causing them harm.
2022-04-1435 min
The Latino MajorityJorge Plasencia, Revealing the Dimensionality of the Latino ExperienceInherited from his father, Jorge Plasencia’s entrepreneurial spirit is affirmed through his creative marketing agency, Republica Havas. There, Plasencia echoes the multicultural makeup of Miami, where Republica Havas is based, while spotlighting the unique perspective of the American Latino. Because he knows that if you’re not investing in the Latino community today, you’re likely be obsolete in 20 years.
2022-04-1432 min
The Latino MajorityAnilu Vazquez-Ubarri, Seeing Strength in NumbersAs CHRO and partner at TPG and a board member at Upwork, Anilu Vazquez-Ubarri proudly carries the torch for her maternal grandmother, a mentor and analytical thinker who was one of the first women to go to a university in Puerto Rico. In her current roles, Vazquez-Ubarri focuses on data to emphasize the gaps in diverse representation in corporate America while messaging the need for the Latino community to collectively “run to the fire,” as she puts it, and take advantage of its numbers.
2022-04-1431 min
The Latino MajorityIsabel Lara, Ensuring Consistency in the MessageAs chief communications officer at National Public Radio (NPR), Isabel Lara ensures there’s a unified brand voice at the trusted news institution—one that acknowledges all voices, all accents, and all experiences. A Venezuelan immigrant who came to the United States 20 years ago, Lara has already spent considerable time walking the halls of media companies and museums. What’s been made crystal clear during her journey is that “the Latino story is part of the American story.”
2022-04-1428 min
The Latino MajorityAlicia Menendez, Covering the Latino StoryFor Alicia Menendez, introducing mainstream media to the Latino community brings with it a deep sense of responsibility. An MSNBC anchor and the host of the Latina to Latina podcast, Menendez understands the value of context when shaping media narratives, and with her “heart of service,” she promotes the message that if you want to break down silos, you need to be clear about the why and be willing to ask for help.
2022-04-1428 min
The Latino MajorityBonus Episode: Aidymar Bigio, Getting Comfortable in the MetaverseRecorded in front of a live audience via Zoom, this bonus episode features a conversation with Meta's Aidymar Bigio and emphasizes the human connection and shared experiences being created by the metaverse, particularly as we become more accustomed to living in a virtual world. At the end of the episode, the floor is opened up for questions from the audience to Bigio, ranging from “What is your favorite VR experience and why?” to “How do you see VR enhancing travel?”
2022-02-2325 min
The Latino MajorityDr. Cristina Mora, Insisting on Nuance and Being Seen as AmericanFor Dr. Cristina Mora, the greatest challenge faced by Latinos is being seen as American. The community’s collective consciousness may have developed as a result of never being accepted, but every new generation brings with it an added layer of dynamism and a welcome discourse about the identity of America. Today, as a professor of sociology at UC Berkeley and author of Making Hispanics: How Activists, Bureaucrats, and Media Constructed a New American, Dr. Mora insists on the nuance of Latinidad and calls for Latinos to work together towards a project of justice.
2021-11-1745 min
The Latino MajoritySamara Mejia Hernandez, Investing in Potential to Understand ValueSamara Mejia Hernandez discovered early on that math acted as a universal language when she was challenged by a fifth-grade teacher to pursue accelerated courses. Later, when an older sister pushed her towards an engineering program, Hernandez began to recognize the value of investing in potential. Today, the Chingona Ventures’ founding partner carries that insight into her investment strategies, embracing the totality of her life experience to benefit the founders in whom she sees potential.
2021-11-1744 min
The Latino MajorityMike Roggero, Moving Beyond Regularly Scheduled ProgrammingThe first-generation son of a Cuban mother and Peruvian father, Mike Roggero never saw anything on television growing up that represented who he was. Today, as chairman and CEO of Fuse Media, Roggero has a goal to make the voice of the underserved stretch out across the entire media ecosystem—so that the Fuse brand becomes ubiquitous and, in turn, showcases the right representation of a blended America.
2021-11-1731 min
The Latino MajorityAidymar Bigio, Imagining a Reality That Never Feels ForeignWhen Aidymar Bigio immigrated to the United States—having been accepted to the engineering program at the University of Rochester—it came as more than a culture shock. She describes that first step of her journey as a “survival game in assimilation.” Aidymar Bigio’s story begins as that of a curious girl who heard a ticking coming from her mom. That experience propelled her towards a career in engineering, and today, as a prominent Latina at Meta, she leads the future of Oculus.
2021-11-1728 min
The Latino MajoritySol Trujillo, Buying into the New Mainstream EconomyYou don’t become the CEO of a Fortune 200 company at the age of 42 without talent, self-confidence, and a clear vision for growth in market share and shareholder value. What makes Sol Trujillo legendary is that he brings that same competitive spirit and foresight to the project he now leads. Today, Trujillo is cofounder of L’Attitude and chair of the Latino Donor Collaborative (LDC), an immensely important role in which he ensures that Latinos take their rightful place in the family photo of America.
2021-11-1742 min
The Latino MajorityMaría Teresa Kumar, Pushing for the Vote of ConfidenceAs a child, Maria Teresa Kumar often acted as her family’s de facto translator, in some instances going to the doctor with her grandmother to make sure she received the right prescriptions. Her responsibility meant she often navigated two worlds and assumed the role of advocate for those the system quickly left behind. Today, as president and CEO of Voto Latino—and as an Emmy-nominated MSNBC contributor—she maintains an advocacy for Latinos that is louder and more critical than ever before.
2021-11-1743 min
The Latino MajorityBobby Herrera, Picking Up the Check and Paying It ForwardOne evening, while returning home from a baseball game on the team bus, Bobby and his brother didn't follow the rest of the players into a restaurant for dinner. They simply couldn't afford it. That night, the generosity of one man set into motion Bobby's ambition to always pay it forward—to his friends, his coworkers, his family. Today, Herrera is cofounder and president of Populus Group and the author of The Gift of Struggle, a book about leadership and the life-changing lessons learned in working through the grind.
2021-11-1741 min
The Latino MajorityIntroducing The Latino Majority by Hispanic ExecutiveThe Latino Majority (TLM) podcast highlights the leaders of our country’s new majority—one that is increasingly multicultural, increasingly diverse, and increasingly Latino. TLM amplifies the voices of Latino professionals who are not readily allowed a platform where their insights and stories can be heard. Even as the US Latino population increases every year, the demographic growth remains undervalued and underrepresented in corporate leadership positions and media coverage. The Latino Majority is here to change that. Over the course of our limited podcast series, you'll hear from Latino innovators in both business and culture. Host Pedro A. Gu...
2021-11-1601 min