Chingona Revolution

So many of the guests we've had on the podcast are some of the most courageous people I've ever met. As Latinas, the odds are often stacked against us. Not only are we separated from our homelands, but the country is systematically trying to keep us from succeeding. This is exactly why I wanted to take the time to shout out some incredible women who beat the odds and gave themselves the lives they always dreamed of.    Revekka Balancier, the founder of Axiom of Purpose, leverages nearly 30 years of marketing and communications experience, bold creativity, and passion for the purpose to craft impactful campaigns dedicated to the greater good. After spending a decade in Hollywood publicity and promotions working on movies for Disney, Paramount, Universal, and other studios, she shifted her focus to public service. She served in key communication roles for the Lt. Governor of Colorado, Denver Human Services, Denver Public Works, the Denver Mayor's Office, and the Port of San Diego, where she launched the agency's new brand. She spent two years as creative strategy VP for a boutique agency before starting Axiom, focusing exclusively on purpose-driven projects, channeling her expertise toward positive environmental and social change. She spends most weekends brunching with her granddaughters, searching for better crepes than the ones she learned to make from her abuelita – hasn't happened yet!   Anahi Bravo is a First-Gen Mexican American and was born and raised in Houston, TX. As someone who comes from an immigrant background, she's found a passion in helping the community. She is a social worker who supports unaccompanied minors, which has been a fulfilling and learning experience. During her free time, she enjoys working out and trying new hobbies. She's also in her running and soccer era! She takes pride in being a dog mom, and she enjoys spending time with family.   Maideli Garcia is a Latina money coach helping WOC save, invest, and earn more without sacrificing their JOY. She is the daughter of Mexican immigrants and the First-Gen to attend college. She got her BA in Elementary Education, but after experiencing burnout, Maideli pivoted out of teaching and into the tech space, working remotely. She now has more energy and time to commit to her mission of helping WOC confidently take control of their finances.   This week's episode is a mash-up of three women who found their courage and manifested their most amazing life. Whether it was starting a business, launching a podcast, or reaching out to help their communities, they each made the courageous choice to take aligned action. They took their ideas to the Courage Driven Latina program and made their wildest dreams come true. Tune in to this week's episode to hear how they did it and how you can do it too.  Connect with Revekka: Instagram: @revekkab LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/revekkabalancier/  Connect with Axiom of Purpose: Instagram: @axiomofpurpose   Website: axiomofpurpose.com    Connect with Anahi:  Instagram: @queridalatinapodcast   Connect with Maideli: IG: @mydailydinero Website: https://linktr.ee/mydailydinero    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the free webinar, “ 90 Day Manifestation Path to Entrepreneurship, Courage, and Career Pivots Without Feeling Scared, Stuck, or Overwhelmed” here! Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Failure isn't something we should be afraid of. Yes, it's a pain, and the rejection hurts, but it's what helps us grow as business owners. We can never get better if we don't figure out what isn't working. And today we're going to tackle the most common cause of failure.    When I started talking to the business owners inside of Courage Driven Latina, I realized that their fear of failure was what was keeping my clients from reaching their full potential. These women were dealing with core wounds that they were having a hard time tackling by themselves. It wasn't until we started talking things out that we realized they had these feelings of unworthiness and not feeling good enough that were keeping them from succeeding in business. And I could completely empathize with these women because I went through the same thing they did.    In this week's episode, we're talking about what I learned from failing in business. Before I had Courage Driven Latina, I failed a lot. And while I know now that failure is part of the process, I can't say I wasn't frustrated. I was doing so much research and planning, and I wanted so badly to be successful. But I was missing a key part of the business process - taking action. Tune in to learn how I got over my fear of failure and actually embraced it. Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the free webinar “ You're Not Stuck, You're Scared” here! Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Life isn't just about struggling to live and sacrificing to advance your career. It's about enjoying ourselves, connecting with each other, and using our money to invest in something incredible! It's time to take back our power and live the lives we know we should be living. And we can start by listening to Arielle's incredible story for inspiration.    Arielle Diaz is a Peabody and GLAAD-nominated TV Writer-Producer with credits on GENTEFIED (Netflix), With Love (Prime Video), The Last Man on Earth (FOX), etc. She is a wellbeing advocate and passionate about beauty, ancestral reclamation, and exploring the intersection of wellness, heritage, and storytelling. Arielle mentors and occasionally teaches the art and business of television with The Gotham Institute, and is beginning her journey as an angel investor in clean beauty and wellness consumer brands. She began her career at Google before transitioning into television. Fun fact: Arielle is a neuro-spicy mystic, and her current hyper-fixation is fairies and gnomes—decorating her home altar with all things whimsical and enchanted. It might change next month, but for now, she's living in a bit of magic.   In this week's episode, Arielle shares how she left the cutthroat environment of Hollywood screenwriting when she listened to her intuition and reconnected with her ancestors in Mexico. The trip allowed her to follow her curiosity, which in turn led to her finding solutions to her chronic illness, finding the connection she was seeking, and meeting her future mentor. Tune in to this week's episode to hear how she connected with her ancestors and connected with her highest self.  Follow Arielle on: Instagram: @she.is.that LinkedIn: @ariellediaz   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Financial freedom is something we should all be striving for. Our parents taught us to be practical and get a good, stable job. But life isn't always stable, and if we are going to be bad ass feminists who do what we want with our lives, we need to be financially free. Financial freedom means leaving your cheating husband without worries and about bills, it means fully funding your maternity leave to spend time with your newborn, and it means taking a calculated risk on your time and not anyone else's. This week's guest is a good friend of mine who has done all this and more, and she's going to show you how you can do it too.    Jannese Torres is an award-winning Latina Money Expert. She became an accidental entrepreneur after a job loss led her to create a successful Latin food blog, Delish D'Lites. Now, she helps her clients and listeners build successful online businesses that allow them to pursue financial independence and freedom. Jannese is on a mission to educate marginalized communities on topics like entrepreneurship, investing, and financial independence through her personal finance podcast, "Yo Quiero Dinero." Her new book, Financially Lit!, was published by Grand Central Publishing on April 30, 2024. Order your copy at financiallylitbook.com  Launched in 2019, Yo Quiero Dinero® is an award-winning personal finance podcast for Latinas and people of color. The Yo Quiero Dinero® Podcast educates and empowers listeners on personal finance topics like entrepreneurship, financial independence, building generational wealth, investing, and money mindset through guest interviews & solo episodes.   In this week's episode, my long-time friend Jannese Torres will be catching me up on all her latest adventures, all while sharing what financial freedom can do for you. Whether it's getting yourself out of a bad situation or setting yourself up for a good one, you need to be financially free. No matter what situation you're in now, it is possible!  Follow Jannese on: Website: www.yoquierodineropodcast.com  IG: @yoquierodineropodcast  Pinterest: @dineropodcast  YouTube: @YoQuieroDineroPodcast  Twitter: @dineropodcast  TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdB1ydrw  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/yo-quiero-dinero  Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Over the last six years, I've really been getting into the science of manifesting. Because it is a science! Manifesting has everything to do with neuroplasticity, neuroscience, and epigenetics. There's a reason I created my dream life when I left my tech job. And there's one specific method of manifesting that always works for me, so I'm going to share it with you today.    It's called the BFF method, and it's called the BFF method because this manifestation method is about to be your best friend forever. Using this method in your daily life is going to teach you how to be the creator of your life rather than feeling like life is happening to you instead of with you.   In this week's episode, we're taking control of our lives with the BFF method. I'm going to share real-life examples of how I've used the BFF methods to manifest some of the most amazing moments in my career. And if I can do it, you can do it too!  Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Click here to listen to Manifest Your Next Level, the free guided visualization   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

"Mira, ponte las pilas." How many times have you heard that phrase before? Or "no seas una pendeja," or "nadie te quita lo que está para ti." These phrases helped guide us into the women we are today. We picked ourselves up and dusted ourselves off because we had tough love at home that taught us how to be tougher chingonas. And to be honest, these phrases still help me out to this day! When I'm feeling low, I think, "Mira, Erika, ponte las pilas," and get out of my slump. Because mama didn't raise a pendeja!    Carolina Acosta is a Forbes 30 Under 30 entrepreneur, designer, and co-author of Mamá Didn't Raise a Pendeja. As the founder of Tragos Games, she's built a bold, culture-forward brand that celebrates Latino identity through fun, connection, and conversation. A proud NY-born Latina with a love for salsa dancing and storytelling, Carolina blends her background in design with her passion for sharing underrepresented perspectives—creating everything from party games to community-driven experiences. When she's not developing new products or mentoring the next wave of creators, you'll find her exploring new countries, dancing all night, or playing party games with friends. Carolina's mission is simple: to bring more unity, authenticity, and cultura to the table—literally.   Aralis Mejia is the founder of Silara Marketing, Head of Marketing for Tragos Games, and co-author of Mamá Didn't Raise a Pendeja. At Silara Marketing, she helps businesses of all sizes strategize and execute marketing plans that blend new tech with traditional tactics, including Tragos Games where she's been helping amplify the brand since launch. Born and raised in NYC, her background in hospitality shaped her love for creating memorable experiences—whether it's for a brand, her family, or a table full of friends. Outside of work, you'll find Aralis dining at the newest restaurant, hosting family get-togethers, or experimenting with recipes in the kitchen. From brand launches to birthday dinners, she brings heart and humor to every room she walks into.   Carolina Acosta is a Forbes 30 Under 30 entrepreneur, designer, and co-author of Mamá Didn't Raise a Pendeja. As the founder of Tragos Games, she's built a bold, culture-forward brand that celebrates Latino identity through fun, connection, and conversation. A proud NY-born Latina with a love for salsa dancing and storytelling, Carolina blends her background in design with her passion for sharing underrepresented perspectives, creating everything from party games to community-driven experiences. When she's not developing new products or mentoring the next wave of creators, you'll find her exploring new countries, dancing all night, or playing party games with friends. Carolina's mission is simple: to bring more unity, authenticity, and cultura to the table—literally.   Aralis Mejia is the founder of Silara Marketing, Head of Marketing for Tragos Games, and co-author of Mamá Didn't Raise a Pendeja. At Silara Marketing, she helps businesses of all sizes strategize and execute marketing plans that blend new tech with traditional tactics, including Tragos Games, where she's been helping amplify the brand since launch. Born and raised in NYC, her background in hospitality shaped her love for creating memorable experiences—whether it's for a brand, her family, or a table full of friends. Outside of work, you'll find Aralis dining at the newest restaurant, hosting family get-togethers, or experimenting with recipes in the kitchen. From brand launches to birthday dinners, she brings heart and humor to every room she walks into.   This week, Carolina and Aralis share the incredible story of how their book, Mamá Didn't Raise a Pendeja, came to be and how they are working hard to preserve Latino culture for generations to come. They had no idea they were going to go viral, but once the community learned about their book, there was no going back. Now more than ever is the time to take pride in our culture and protect it for this generation and the next. Listen to hear the story behind the viral sensation and what they have planned for the future.    Follow Caroline and Aralis on: Instagram: @tragosgame Instagram: @nopendejashere Facebook: Tragos Game TikTok: @tragosgame LinkedIn: Tragos Games LLC Check out Mamá Didn't Raise a Pendeja: Anti-Affirmations Inspired by Tough-Love Abuelas here!   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.  

Here's the thing: no matter what your catalyst is, whether it's a layoff or you quit and pivoted, you'll always end up where you need to be. Take our guest, Lucia, for example. She was laid off during the pandemic, and soon after, she realized her dream wasn't to be an art director for Amazon. That company, by the way, laid off her entire team as soon as things got rough. Now that she had the freedom to take a breath and think about what she actually wanted to do, Lucia knew she wanted to work for herself and be an illustrator. Now, she's a successful working artist who has partnered with some of the biggest brands in the world.    Lucia Diaz is a published illustrator and co-author of Viva Latina, created in collaboration with Sandra Velasquez, the visionary CEO of Nopalera. As a sought-after public speaker, she has delivered impactful talks for prestigious brands, including American Express, Target, WBENC, We All Grow Latina, and Latinas in Tech. In her work as an illustrator, she has partnered with iconic global brands such as DIOR, Tiffany & Co., CHANEL, Giorgio Armani, SAKS, DVF, and Carolina Herrera, elevating events through live sketching and art that captures the essence of culture and elegance. Lucia Diaz's passion for illustration stems from a deep desire to ensure Latinas see themselves authentically represented.    Growing up, the only Latina she encountered in history books was Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. This lack of visibility inspired her to take action. Studies indicate that Latinas constitute only 3-5% of the figures featured in U.S. history textbooks—a statistic that does not reflect their profound contributions to America's legacy. Through her art and storytelling, she illuminates the power of representation. Whether creating inspiring illustrations or leading dynamic workshops, her mission is to celebrate Latinas, amplify their voices, and ensure young girls—like her goddaughter—see themselves in stories of wisdom, strength, and achievement.   In this week's episode, she shares her story of how she went from being a child of a low-income family to working with luxury brands and having an extremely coveted mentor. She went from being laid off to creating a successful business that works with some of the biggest brands in the world. She now shares her story and encourages other artists to start working for themselves rather than relying on corporate entities that don't care about them. Listen to Lucia's episode for incredible entrepreneurial tips, real-life experiences, and heartfelt connections now.    Follow Lucia on: Instagram: @holaluciadiaz LinkedIn: Lucia Diaz LLC Book Link + Subscribe: https://fearlessyaya.com/subscribe/ Check out Lucia's services here: https://byluciadiaz.com/services    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

AI is an extremely powerful tool that is currently accessible to anyone with an internet connection. We, in the Latino community, can use to give ourselves the leg up we may not have had access to before. Say, for example, you couldn't get a Master's in Marketing Data Analytics when you were in college, but now you need to make a marketing plan for your business. AI can help you create a personalized marketing plan that appeals to any and every algorithm out there. That being said, not everyone knows how to use AI or use it well.    A lot of people are afraid that AI is going to steal their jobs and leave them destitute. But AI is a tool - it's as much a tool for you as a hammer is to a carpenter. And in this week's episode, we're talking to an expert in tech to teach you how to take your business to the next level.    This week's guest is Nikki Barua, the Interim CEO of Latinas in Tech. Nikki is a serial entrepreneur, keynote speaker, bestselling author, and leading expert in helping people and organizations accelerate success. In her 25-year career in innovation, she has helped global brands transform their culture and capabilities. Now she is on a mission to help business leaders reinvent the way they lead, live, and succeed in the age of AI. Nikki has won numerous awards, including Entrepreneur of the Year by ACE, named as an EY North America Entrepreneurial Winning Woman, honored as one of the 21 Leaders for the 21st Century, recognized as Entrepreneur Magazine's 100 Most Influential Women, LA Woman of Influence by The Business Journals and Women of Entrepreneurship by LA Lakers. Nikki holds three Master's degrees and is a lifelong learner with insatiable curiosity. She believes that we are all limitless and leads her life committed to inspiring people to live up to their highest potential.   In this week's episode, Nikki tells us how we can level up as business leaders and use AI to take our businesses to the next level. We are entering a new age of leadership, and I don't want any of you to get left behind just because you didn't know how to use the most powerful tool of our generation. Tune in to hear how you can leverage AI to improve your business and hear all the leadership lessons Nikki has learned to become the powerhouse she is today. Follow Nikki on: Instagram: @thenikkibarua Instagram: @latinasintechorg LinkedIn: Nikki Barua Website: https://latinasintechsummit.org Get your tickets for the Latinas at Tech Summit here!   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

You can do anything with the right community behind you, and this week's guest can testify to that. Lourdes was going through an extremely tough time - she was put through the ringer in the military, she found herself in $75k of household debt, and her (now ex) husband kicked her out of her own home. She needed to make a change and FAST. So she reached out to her community, including the Courage Driven Latina community, and her community came through for her.    Lourdes Fernando is a passionate advocate for veterans and a Chicago realtor specializing in VA loans. An 11-year Army National Guard veteran, she empowers fellow veterans, particularly women, to achieve financial independence and stability through the strategic use of their VA benefits. Over 90% of her business focuses on assisting veterans in securing homeownership. Beyond real estate, Lourdes actively engages in community initiatives, serving as chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee at Keller Williams Realty. Her dedication has earned her recognition, including the REALTOR® Community Service Award, underscoring her commitment to supporting and uplifting the veteran community.   In this week's episode, Lourdes shares her story of building wealth and community after her military service. She was able to find herself a new home, invest in property, clear out her debt, and save $40k in just a few years. When her previous community fell through, she joined Courage Driven Latina and dove headfirst into studying the VA benefits that are available to her. Now, she helps other vets take full advantage of their benefits and build generational wealth. Listen to Lourdes's episode to learn how you can leverage your community even in the worst of times.  Follow Lourdes on: Instagram: @lourdes_lu_fernando Website: https://www.jlhomesforyou.com/    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

It all comes down to learning how to trust ourselves. For example, picking between two great job offers and not being able to choose which one to take. They're both great! They're not perfect, some of the benefits could be better, and there's going to be some annoying parts of the job, but both opportunities are still great. And still, you can't make a decision.    If you know that something like picking between two great job offers paralyzes you, then we need to start strengthening your decision-making skills. Don't worry! We'll do this together.    In this week's episode, we're talking about the power of making a decision. I've made so many career changes in the last five years alone. And even though most of these career decisions wouldn't be the ones I stuck with, they would lead me to create the Courage Driven Latina program. And I never would have gotten there if I had never made the decision to pivot. Listen to this week's episode to learn how you can start trusting yourself and believing in the power of making a decision.  Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

One, admittedly major, decision can change the course of your life for the better. Especially if that major decision involves you leaning into your life's purpose. Because once you see the chance to align yourself with your goals, and you take it, everything starts to fall into place. This is exactly what happened with this week's guest, Bricia Lopez. She started her culinary career taking over her parents' struggling restaurant with her siblings, and now she's a critically acclaimed, globally recognized chef.    Bricia Lopez is a chef, entrepreneur, and acclaimed author. She is a partner at Guelaguetza Restaurant, recipient of The James Beard American Classics award and lauded by the late L.A. Times food critic Jonathan Gold as “The best Oaxacan restaurant in the United States.” Bricia has authored two cookbooks. “OAXACA Home Cooking From the Heart of Mexico” became an instant Amazon bestseller and earned a 2020 James Beard nomination. Her second cookbook, “Asada,” published in 2023, was included in the New York Times' list of best cookbooks of the year. In collaboration with her siblings, Bricia has launched two nationally distributed brands, including the bottled cocktail mix, I Love Micheladas™️, and Guelaguetza™️ mole starters. A sought-after featured guest, Bricia has appeared on NBC's Today Show and judged Bravo's Top Chef, while also being featured in high-profile outlets such as Forbes, NPR, Food & Wine, BBC, and The New Yorker.   In this week's episode, we're talking to Bricia about how she built a culinary empire rooted in culture. We also dive into how she maintains the confidence to build her dream life and how she can do it as a mother to two small children. Bricia is proof that you can give yourself anything you want; you just have to go for it.    Follow Bricia on: Instagram: @bricialopez Website: https://www.bricialopez.com/    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Sex can be a beautiful experience full of love and fulfilled desires. It's this amazing expression of love and intimacy that you can share with your partner and with yourself! But to be able to reach the sexual freedom we all hope for, we have to do some soul searching.    Jocelyn Silva is a Life and Intimacy Coach with over 13 years of experience helping people break free from limiting beliefs and fully embrace their sexual power. Once a Catholic schoolgirl who dreamed of being a nun (true story!), she now teaches clients how to embody confidence, connection, and pleasure—without guilt or shame. With a Master's in Social Work and a background in sex education, Jocelyn's approach blends psychology, embodiment, and radical self-love. She's the creator of Pleasure Playground, a transformative group coaching program, and a passionate digital nomad who believes sexual empowerment makes life easier (and way more fun).    In this week's episode, we're talking to Jocelyn about healing sexual shame, embracing pleasure, and cultivating self-acceptance. If you're feeling sexually repressed, undesirable, or you feel like there's something broken inside of you, it might be time to go on a journey of sexual self-discovery. The more you grow to love yourself and accept every part of yourself, the more pleasure you'll feel in the bedroom. It's all connected!  Follow Jocelyn on: Instagram: @iamjocelynsilva  Website: www.jocelynsilva.com LinkedIn: Jocelyn Silva   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

You may say to yourself, “I'm not a controlling person, this isn't about me.” But the need to control the world around us is a natural part of human nature. We crave control because we think control will bring us certainty, and then that certainty will bring us peace.    But sometimes you don't get certainty, no matter how much you try. And instead of freaking out about the uncertainty of it all, we should all try and take a deep breath and look at the situation differently. Believe it or not, you do have more options besides controlling an outcome or stressing out because you can't control the outcome. It doesn't always feel that way, but it's true.   In this week's episode, we're talking about the real reason you suffer and how to stop. Your need to control the world around you - whether that be your relationships, your employment status, or your job - is causing you unnecessary resistance and keeping you in a perpetual state of suffering. But it doesn't have to be this way. Let's learn how to let go of your need to control things and how you can replace it with something more productive.    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Some people would consider my journey a series of failures before finally getting it right. But I don't see it that way. Each path leads to another and even though a lot of those paths didn't work out for me long-term, I learned a lot from each of them. I learned that I could live without my tech job when I became a yoga instructor. I learned how to put myself out there on the internet as a food blogger. Even the tech job I fell out of love with gave me the safety net I needed to try and build something on my own.    What I'm saying is, you don't have to get it right the first time and the same thing goes for the new year. We're three months into the new year and most people I know didn't have a great three months! It happens. But that doesn't mean you have to write the whole year off. You can turn it around and I'm going to tell you how.    In this week's episode, we're talking about how to turn 2025 around, even if the year didn't start off right for you. I'm going to share with you three reasons why you haven't taken any action towards reinventing yourself. I am also going to tell you what you can do about it. This year is not over yet. In fact, let's work together to make 2025 your best year yet!  Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Secure your spot for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Welcome to our highly anticipated webinar - The Purpose Pivot: Dare to Dream Again Webinar! This webinar has gotten so many incredible reviews that we decided to bring it back one more time, this time with brand new CDL bonuses! We had such an amazing time on live I just had to share the recording with the podcast.    If you know you need to make a change but don't know where to start, this webinar is for you. I have helped hundreds of clients change the trajectory of their lives and embrace the person they've always wanted to be. Through the Courage Driven Latina program, I have helped guide people through the most tumultuous times of their lives and see their dreams out to the end and start on a brand new dream, too. And now, I'm going to share how I did it in this webinar.    In "The Purpose Pivot" webinar, you'll discover the exact steps I took to transition from a stable, six-figure, yet unfulfilling tech career to building a purpose-driven business that aligns with my true calling—all within 90 days. And you can too! Everyone can align with their calling, and I can help you make your dreams a reality if you're ready to pivot to your purpose too.     Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Secure your spot for the Courage Driven Latina program here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.  

This is your life - you are the only one who can decide if you should go get more for yourself. It's great that everything looks amazing on paper, but to truly live your best life, it has to feel amazing IRL. That's exactly what this week's guest is striving for. She has a great full-time job, a great husband, and a great start to her career as a college advisor. But she wanted MORE. Yesenia wanted to keep traveling, to help more people, and to finally start working for herself. So she started her own company and started accepting clients - all while coming to terms with her identity and what that means for her new life.   Yesenia Bernal-Alcala is a proud Michigander with a heart full of wanderlust. She is the daughter of a Mexican immigrant and a first-generation college graduate. Her journey of breaking barriers and challenging the status quo has shaped her mission: to help others transform their dreams into reality. Now, she's embracing her next chapter: learning how to become her own jefa in her health, finances, and career—all while empowering others to do the same. Yesenia's dedication to nonprofits, grassroots organizations, and social justice led her to create YBA Transformations LLC, where she helps small organizations transform their impact with effective project management strategies. Yesenia inspires others to take bold steps toward their dreams through her work, travels, and story.   In this week's episode, Yesenia joins us on the podcast to tell us all about her transformative journey from working a 9-5 to starting her own business. Through Courage Driven Latina, she's been able to find confidence in herself, accept her identity in its entirety, and start accepting clients through her new business. It hasn't always been easy, but Yesenia is pushing through the doubt and making it happen. Follow Yesenia on: Instagram @‌yeseniabernal37 LinkedIn: Yesenia Bernal-Alcala Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the "The Purpose Pivot" webinar here. Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

So many of my clients struggle with, first of all, knowing what they want to do next, and then being married to that decision for the rest of their lives. They think that they'll be stuck behind the confines of the decisions they make right now. But it's not true! This is the beginning of your next evolution and you can always keep evolving! This concept can be hard to imagine, so this week I invited a very special guest to show you what always evolving can look like.  Amy Landino is an entrepreneur, bestselling author, and award-winning host of the popular YouTube series AmyTV. For over a decade, Amy has been a leading authority on getting digital attention and is a trusted educator by global brands, including Adobe, Oracle, Audible, Twitter, Linkedin, Facebook, YouTube, Intuit Quickbooks, and many more. An internationally renowned public speaker, Amy is a professional coach on how to leverage digital tools to increase brand awareness and build a profitable and sustainable business.   In this week's episode, we have a very special guest. My (unofficial) mentor Amy Landino is joining me on the podcast! I've been following her on YouTube for over ten years and I've been on her podcast not once, but twice. Now she's joining me on my podcast to talk about all things entrepreneurship, what she does when she's feeling stuck, and how she finds the passion to take action.    Follow Amy on: Instagram @‌schmittastic Youtube @‌AmyTV  Website: amylandino.com  Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the "The Purpose Pivot" webinar here. Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

That feeling you have pushing you towards your purpose is giving you permission to go for it. You don't need anything else to validate your thoughts, you just have to go for it. No matter what anyone else thinks.    This week's guest is Miriam Corona, a life coach and a Courage Driven Latina alum. Miriam has years of leadership and security experience at Microsoft's Data Center under her belt, as well as a background in Human Resources. During her time at Microsoft, Miriam learned how to inspire and guide people to embrace new opportunities. Now as a life coach, she helps women step out of their comfort zones and discover the confidence that's already within them without needing external validation to shine.   In this week's episode, Miriam and I talk about listening to that call you can't ignore and stepping into your purpose. Miriam used to be held back by what other people would think of her. What's more, she didn't feel like she was the type of person who quit their job and started their own business. She didn't think it was in her. Listen to this week's episode to find out what changed and how she made all her dreams come true in less than a year.    Follow Miriam on: Instagram @‌crownmiriam  Facebook @‌crownmiriam  LinkedIn Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the "The Purpose Pivot" webinar here. Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Before I started this coaching business, I wanted to start a food blog. I was extremely passionate about it, but I wasn't putting any action towards making it happen. It wasn't until my ex, my boyfriend at the time, called me out on my inaction. At first, I was offended, but then I realized that he was right. I kept talking about this food blog I was so into, but I was too afraid to start actually posting.    I was stuck because I felt like I needed clarity before I started anything. I was researching blogging and taking notes on other people's blogs and just waiting for the moment I felt ready enough to post on my own blog. But that feeling never came. And it never would! Clarity is not what I needed to start my food blog - action was.    In this week's episode, we're talking about clarity and how to stop overthinking and actually start doing. It's time to take action and start working towards our most courageous lives. In this episode, I'm going to share my secret to manifesting my most amazing life. Here's a hint - structured, perfectionist action doesn't work but messy action does. Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the "The Purpose Pivot" webinar here. Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Living your life's purpose doesn't have to be this huge apocalyptic event in your life. You don't have to quit your job and cut off all your connections in order to get closer to your life's goal. You can start with what you have right now.    So many of my clients felt stuck in this limbo of wanting to live for their purpose but not wanting to give up their whole lives for it. And the funny thing is, they never had to! Burning down your old life is not a requirement for starting your new one. You can start your business while you work your day job. You can write your book without getting an MFA first. You can do it, you just have to start.    In this week's episode, we're going to be talking about how you can live your life's purpose right now -  no drastic changes required. Drastic changes in your life like quitting your job or getting an MFA are not what's going to align you with your life's purpose. What will align with your life's purpose is taking it one step at a time.    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the "The Purpose Pivot" webinar here. Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Books have changed my life in so many different ways. Every time I want to make a change, or grow, or even if I'm just curious about a topic, I do a little bit of research and pick up a book. I can't tell you how much good it's done for me. Even just one book, the Alchemist, has changed the trajectory of my life three times! The Alchemist gave me the courage I needed when I wanted to break off my engagement, when I left my six-figure tech job, and when I decided to move back home. I needed a new perspective to give me the courage I needed to make those changes, and I found it in that book.   Books are an amazing way to start your self-development journey. They're accessible, convenient, and full of information. You can find books online, at your local bookstore, and for free at your local library. You can get a library card for a few bucks, or sometimes even free! Books are an incredible resource, and in this episode, I'm sharing a few of my favorites.    In this week's episode, I'm going to share the 10 books that changed my life and why you'll want to read them too. I'm sharing everything from fiction to non-fiction, some books on creativity and discipline, and some books from authors I personally know! I also share their corresponding podcast episodes if you're interested in learning more about their books and their journeys. If you're ready to take the next step and start attracting your most amazing life, this episode is for you.  Resources Mentioned: EP. 75: The Ultimate Courage Project: How Linda Garcia Pivoted to Teach POC the Stock Market with Linda GarciaEP. 113: Cultura and Cash: Managing Finances & Cultural Expectations w/ Giovanna GonzálezEP. 140: Become Financially Lit with Jannese Torres Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the "The Purpose Pivot" webinar here. Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

First of all, no one knows what they're doing. It's very rare that anyone knows exactly what their purpose is. That takes a lot of time and a lot of life to live so you're definitely not behind. Don't get too caught up in what everyone else is doing.    In fact, most people we know are stressing out about feeling left behind and how everyone else is doing. If you're feeling left behind because you're not married, the married people are probably stressing out about their marriage, etc. We all feel like the grass is greener on the other side. So how do we stop feeling like we're falling behind when we're really not?    In this week's episode, I'm going to break down why you're not falling behind - even when it feels like you are. To do this, I'm going to share a few examples of people who felt like they were falling behind, including myself, when they were actually exactly where they were supposed to be. You're not behind, you just need to accept where you are so the Universe can tell you where you're going.    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

The magic of mindfulness has gotten me through some of the worst times of my life.  We know there are always ups and downs - in life, in business, everywhere. We know that balance is key and that everything will correct itself in the end. In those low moments, I spent way too much time anxiously worrying about all the worst things that could happen.    Worrying can feel like strategizing, but in reality, you're making your mind feel as if you're going through the traumatic event you're thinking of. So you're actually making the worst-case scenario come true because your brain doesn't know the difference between an imagined experience and a real-life event. Your brain needs a break from the negativity, and the best way to do this is to take a moment to be mindful.    In this week's episode, we're talking about the magic of mindfulness and how you can use it to see the light in the midst of all the chaos. Last year when I was stuck worrying about my problems, I couldn't think of any solutions to my problems. But when I refocused my attention on mindfulness, I was able to see the solutions that were right in front of me. And you can too! Listen to this week's episode to unlock the power of mindfulness.    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

The scariest thing about losing your spark is that it can happen at any time and from any number of circumstances losing your spark can come from a toxic relationship, losing your job, or a passion project not turning out how you wanted it to. My clients have told me that they feel overwhelmed by these “failures” and that they're not sure where to go from here. The word failures is in quotations for a reason, just wait.   Without your spark,  it can be really easy to start to question your worth, your power, and how you see yourself. But this is part of the cycle. We have abundance and we have lack. Our moments of lack do not define us, so stop letting it define you. So if this New Year is about getting yourself back to normal, that's okay! Let's take it one step at a time. Together.   In this week's episode, we're talking about how to get your spark back after you've lost it. Life is full of cycles and transitions and your wins wouldn't feel like wins if you never experienced hardship. Let's go through these feelings together. With compassion and trust in the universe, we can find that spark again and know that it never left us. Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

It's the end of the year, we're preparing for the next year, and I just want to say thank you for being here with us! This podcast turns three next year and that means three years of improving our lives, reaching for our goals, and being absolute chingonas! I am so proud of all of you, whether you're new listeners or you've been here since the beginning. I hope to see you all next year too!   As you know, this podcast is devoted to helping you reach your goals and make your dreams a reality. Right now, that looks like writing down your New Year's resolutions and making them happen in 2025. But you can't rely on motivation alone to keep you going.    In this week's episode, we're talking about why most New Year's resolutions fail and how to actually stick to yours. Motivation comes and goes, but habits stick with you when the motivation has run out. There's a science to creating healthy habits, and we're going over it together in today's episode.   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

If this year has taught me anything, it's that ups and downs are a normal part of life. It's frustrating, but it's true. Some of my colleagues have had a very difficult year in business, while others have had their most abundant year ever. I didn't meet my business goals this year, and while it's not ideal, it's not going to make me give up. And if you had a difficult year, it shouldn't make you give up either.   No matter how this year went for you, it's always a good idea to take a moment to organize your thoughts. I actually encourage everyone to reflect and revise every 90 days. It's just the right amount of time to reevaluate, adjust, and lean into new habits that will improve your life for the better.   In this week's episode, I'm going to help you plan for the new year in a very simple way. I'll be guiding you through a handful of journaling prompts and together we'll be reflecting on the past year, resetting our expectations, and rising to the new habits we'll be forming together. Let's plan to make 2025 our best year yet! Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Chances are you failed to do something this year. Whether it's starting your business or starting to date seriously after a divorce, we all have these projects we never actually get to. There is no shame in acknowledging what you failed to do. But I do want you to take charge of your life and actually succeed at your courage project.    You can bounce back from failure and change your life in 90 days. Seriously! It's completely possible. I know because I've had over +200 clients and I've seen them change their lives within 90 days. They've moved on to second and third courage projects and their lives have done a complete 180! It's always been possible for them, they just needed to overcome their fear of failure and keep going.   In this week's episode, we're going over the  five reasons why you may have failed to achieve your goals in the past. Maybe you have attempted to reach a goal and it didn't work out the first, second, or even the third time. That is completely normal, but it can stop people from trying again. I'm going to teach you how to face these failures head-on and keep going until you achieve your goals.  Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Now is the perfect time to start planning for the new year. We can start by thinking about how to make 2025 your most courageous year yet! The new year is the best time to take a leap of faith and reinvent yourself for the better, and the best part is, you don't have to do it alone!   Reinventing yourself doesn't have to take forever or be hard. I know this because I've taken all the wrong routes and reinvented my life so many times. I've learned a lot of tough lessons throughout the years and that's why I'm going to show you what's stopping you from being courageous and how to actually execute your Courage Plan.    In this week's episode, you are going to learn what's holding you back and how it's possible to change your life in 90 days. We're also going to go over three main strategies that have helped me and over 250 clients. So if you're a people pleaser, an overthinker, or an overachiever this very special webinar is for you.    And stick around ‘til the end of the episode for a Courage Driven Latina bonus offer! Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

We are officially in the last month of 2024, and naturally, we're all doing a little more self-reflecting. My clients and I are thinking about our goals, our dreams, and what we accomplished this year. But there's always that little voice in the back of our heads that tells us we could've done more if only we weren't holding back.    Limiting beliefs, like the fear of judgment, keeps us from reaching our most aspirational goals. Naturally, we care about what other people think. It's human nature. But at some point, we have to break free from the fear of judgment and stop caring about other people's opinions.    In this week's episode, we're talking about the fear of judgment and how to get over other people's opinions. Whether you're starting a new business, writing a book, or joining a coaching group, someone will have a negative opinion about it. It's up to you to focus on your goals and see them through anyway.  Resources Mentioned: EP. 132: Mother's Day Special: From Poverty to Investor with Blanca Gonzalez Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the How to Make 2025 Your Courage Year webinar here. Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.

This week's guest spent years putting off her coaching business even though she was already giving away her coaching services for free. She pushed the business part of coaching to the back of her mind even though she had a line of potential customers asking her for her help. Patrons from her gym asked her for her advice because they knew they could trust her. Khay knew she needed to make a change, but she needed help taking courageous action. To start her personal growth journey, Khay needed to start trusting herself.    Coach Khay is a mom of 2, a wife, and an experienced group fitness instructor. Coach Khay has been training and teaching kickboxing since 2001. She specializes in both small and large group sessions, as well as personal training. Her extensive experience includes instructing students of all ages, from young children to seniors. In addition to her kickboxing expertise, Coach Khay became a certified group instructor for TurboKick, a Beachbody program, in 2009. After a brief hiatus, she returned to teaching kickboxing and boxing conditioning classes at UFC Gym in San Bruno during the 2021 pandemic. For the past two and a half years, she has been a dedicated instructor at iLoveKickboxing in Brentwood, where she continues to share her passion for martial arts and fitness.   In this week's episode, Khay shares how she kicked through her mindset barriers by completing her courage project. Before she joined Courage Driven Latina, she was working through a ton of limiting beliefs all on her own. She thought she needed more certifications and qualifications before she started her own coaching business. Meanwhile, she was already coaching her patrons as a kickboxing instructor. She didn't need any more certifications, she just needed to have courage. Listen to Khay's episode to hear all about her personal growth journey and what's next for her coaching business.  Connect with Khay Mandap:  Instagram: @ladykhay415fitness Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the How To Make 2025 Your Courage Year webinar Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here! Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here! Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.  

There's one mindset block that I don't see anyone else talking about but it keeps coming up in the Courage Driven Latina program. It's called passive action and it's keeping ambitious women from fulfilling their wildest dreams. These are not crazy, unattainable dreams. These dreams are well within my clients' reach. But because they find themselves taking passive action, researching for hours instead of taking actionable steps toward their goals, they're letting fear creep into their minds.    We have to get over passive action and start fulfilling our dreams on our own. This week's guest worked through her passive action issues and has fulfilled her dream of launching a podcast.   Anahi Bravo is a First-Gen Mexican American and was born and raised in Houston, TX. As someone who comes from an immigrant background, she's found a passion in helping the community. She is a social worker who supports unaccompanied minors, which has been a fulfilling and learning experience. During her free time, she enjoys working out and trying new hobbies. She's also in her running and soccer era! She takes pride in being a dog mom and she enjoys spending time with family.   In this week's episode, Anahi shares her experiences in the Courage Driven Latina program and how it led her to pursue her dream of starting a podcast. Before she joined the program, Anahi was stuck in passive action.  She knew what she wanted to do but never pulled the trigger and just went for it. She spent weeks researching everything she could about podcasting but couldn't actually launch the podcast she was dreaming of. But with the help of an amazing like-minded community, she was able to get the courage she needed to finally launch the Querida Latina podcast, which is available now on all streaming platforms.  Connect with Anahi:  Instagram: @queridalatinapodcast Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here! Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here! Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

So many of us are going through a very difficult time right now. Whether you're a woman, an immigrant, a member of the LGBT+ community, or even an ally watching all your loved ones go through this, I want you to know that I'm here for you. We're all going through this together. To make sure that we, myself included, don't fall into despair I wanted to dedicate this episode to what we can do in times like these.  Now is not the time to take steps back or doubt ourselves. Now is the time to lean in. Even though everything feels like it's all going wrong, it has never been more important to go after your dreams. There is so much that we can't control. Let's focus our attention on what we can control.    In this week's episode, we're discussing why it is more important now than ever for women to start their dream projects and go after their dreams. This is our act of self-care in these unprecedented times. We need to advocate for ourselves - financially and socially. We cannot fall into despair because we have to protect ourselves and the generation after us. It's time to give yourself the life you've always wanted.  Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

We are two months away from the end of the year, and my mind is already on 2025. I want to get so much done in 2025, but I also want to take the time to look at what I did and didn't do in 2024. Let's go on this journey of reflection together and see what we can bring into the new year.   There are so many reasons we don't start our dream projects. It could be external reasons, like our jobs being really hectic or just going through a breakup and taking time to heal. But what if none of those things were standing in our way? What if it's internal, and the only thing standing in your way is you?   In this week's episode, we're going over 10 reasons why you haven't started your dream project. Your dream project could be anything from starting a podcast, negotiating your salary at work, or even starting your own business. You know what you want—now is the time to make it happen! Tune in to hear all 10 reasons why you haven't started on your dream project and what you can do to combat them.   Resources Mentioned: EP. 132: Mother's Day Special: From Poverty to Investor with Blanca Gonzalez Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the Magnetic Method Webinar here! Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Is this what you want to do with your life? That's the question this week's guest asked herself right before she decided it was time to make a change. She did a full 180, quit her job, and broke up with her longtime boyfriend so that she could start completely over. At that moment, Jess decided it was time to take control of her life and start manifesting brand new opportunities for the life she actually wanted to live.    Jess Jasso is a Self-Love Coach who began her personal self-love journey seven years ago when she chose to leave her career in healthcare management and her boyfriend. Jess was raised by a single mom of three, and she struggled to process her childhood trauma, as a result, she didn't feel worthy of love. As she stepped into her new role as a self-love coach, she started building a community for women in Austin, TX, and led workshops & events centered around self-love and personal development. Her journey of self-love, self-discovery, and learning how to manage her anxiety led her to experience the self-empowerment she deserved. Jess is passionate about helping women on their journeys to self-love because she hopes they will experience the magic of it all! Her mission is to help thousands of women transform their lives by learning how to love themselves because she dreams of everyone living a life that brings true fulfillment and peace.   In this week's episode, Jess shared her experiences in the Courage Driven Latina program and the Magnetic Mastermind Program. In our programs, Jess found the guidance and the community she needed to manifest the life she wanted to live. During our time together Jess excelled at manifesting brand new opportunities for herself and her business, made lifelong friendships, and accepted her first paid client as a self-love coach.    Tune in to hear everything Jess manifested and how you can join the Magnetic Mastermind program!   Connect with Jess: Instagram @‌jesskindloveTikTok @‌jesskindloveYoutube @jesskindlove   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the Magnetic Method Webinar here! Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

It's finally here! A special thanks to everyone who tuned in for our live recording of the Magnetic Method Webinar. It was so great to meet all of you and answer all of your questions as they came in. If you weren't able to make it, don't worry. This week's episode is the replay of the Magnetic Method Webinar!   This webinar is filled with information you can use to take actionable steps toward your goals. This week, I'm sharing some of my own manifesting mistakes as well as which manifesting strategies actually work. I'm teaching you exactly how to embody the mindset of a master manifester and which limiting beliefs to let go of before they block your blessings.    In this week's episode, we are going to change your life with the help of the Magnetic Method. The Magnetic Method is all about how to build influence, attract opportunities without hustling, and leverage the magnetic method to grow your opportunities and leverage them in your everyday life. You're going to learn why manifestation is something that you can learn how to do. Manifestations is not just for a lucky few people - you can do it too!   And stick around for the end of the episode where you'll learn more about the 48-hour bonus offer!    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the Magnetic Mastermind here! Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Sometimes, we are the only thing standing in our own way. We let our fear of failure, or even the fear of success, keep us from making our dreams a reality. But when you are annoyed, frustrated, or even paralyzed by your journey so far, how do you get the courage to keep going? How do you stop self-sabotaging and finally start making progress?   Are you ready to get out of your own way?    In this week's episode, we're talking to a friend of the podcast - Revekka Balancier! If you've heard Revekka's previous episode, you know that she's a successful business owner who is constantly being recommended for new projects. But one day, she burned out and lost her courage. She was absolutely paralyzed and knew she had to do something to get her courage back. Tune in to hear how the Courage Driven Latina program helped her get her courage back and attract even more abundance.  Resources Mentioned: Revekka's previous episode: EP. 136: Purpose and Profit: How This One Thing Led to Weight Loss, Healing, and Revenue with Revekka Balancier Connect with Revekka: Instagram: @revekkab LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/revekkabalancier/  Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the Magnetic Method Webinar here! Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.  

Strategy is a very important part of running your own business. But so is manifestation, and oftentimes, it's easier to execute than strategy. I know it sounds woo-woo but it's true! You need both to get the results you want, especially if you want to build a better life for yourself.    One of the main reasons manifestation is easier is the fact that you are manifesting all the time. Whether you are aware of it or not, you are always manifesting. It's a law of the universe! So if you're already doing it, you might as well use it to your advantage.    In this week's episode, we're talking about the reasons why manifestation is easier than strategy. I'm going to be teaching you how I implement manifestation into my business strategy and why both work better together. Tune in to hear how you can start manifesting your best life today!   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Sign up for the Magnetic Method Webinar here! Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.  

  If you feel like you're stuck in a rut, you're in the right place. Before my clients met me, they were in that same rut. They had great ideas and amazing potential but couldn't turn these great ideas into their reality. And they weren't sure why. All they knew was that if they were going to turn their lives around, they needed guidance.    This week's guest is Diana Serrano, a student of the Courage Driven Latina Program and the Magnetic Mastermind program. Diana is an accountant dedicated to helping first-generation service entrepreneurs manage their bookkeeping and taxes with confidence. She's passionate about empowering the Latine community by bridging the gap between tax education and financial success. As the eldest daughter of Mexican immigrants, Diana takes pride in her roots and loves being able to give back to her community. When she's not crunching numbers, you'll likely find her traveling abroad or trying a new workout.   In this week's episode, Diana shares her experience in the Courage Driven Latina program and the Magnetic Mastermind program. She experienced failure after failure before joining the program and she wanted to change that. With my guidance and the help of her new friends in our group coaching sessions, Diana learned how to push through her limiting beliefs and cultivate a firm belief in her mission. Now she's received thirteen inquiries and is running a successful business.    Tune in to hear more about her recent successes and how she overcame the obstacles in her path.    Follow Diana on: Instagram @‌taxeswithdianaWebsite: https://dianastaxservice.com/    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

So, you want to be an influencer? Being an influencer can be a huge asset to you. It can help you market your business, kick off your social media career, and become a trusted speaker in your field.  I think it's amazing that so many people want to become influencers!    But there is a secret to being an influencer that people aren't talking about - you have to be influential to be a successful influencer.    In this week's episode, we're talking about how to be an influential person and how to use that influence for yourself. We're going over everything from how to be comfortable being seen to how to be a magnetic person. Being an influencer can be a whole career, which is why I'm going to share what I learned from becoming a successful influencer myself.    Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.  

Have you been trying to manifest your most amazing life and felt like you're falling short? You think you're doing everything right but you're still not reaching your goals or hitting your milestones. That can be so incredibly frustrating.   I firmly believe that anyone can manifest, even the person who isn't seeing any results. It's not that you can't manifest. You definitely can! We just need to audit your manifestation practices and get rid of any mistakes. Let's take a look at what's going on internally that's blocking you from receiving your blessings externally.   In this week's episode, we're going over the most common manifestation mistakes and how to fix them. More often than not, our manifestations don't come through because we're blocking our own blessings. And sometimes we do it without even realizing it! Tune into this week's episode to see if you are making any of these manifesting mistakes and how you can fix them.   Resources Mentioned: EP. 76: Learn to be Productive & Trust your Intuition with Human Design ft Angelina Hernandez and Arlin Perez Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Making friends as an adult is so much harder now than it was when we were kids. As kids, we made friends with whoever we had to be around. That meant making friends with our classmates in school, our teammates in our sports teams, and whoever was interested in the same hobbies as us.    But as adults, we feel like we have two options—work and home. At work, we tend to want to keep things professional. So, how are we supposed to make friends as adults? I've learned that you can make friends by not being afraid to be alone.    In this week's episode, I will share how I made friends by using the power of solitude. I know it sounds counterintuitive but it really does work! By being alone I've made friends just by attending dance classes, traveling to different countries, and even while taking coaching courses for my business. I met some of my best friends in a coaching course! Listen to this episode to learn why being alone is the most important part of making friends as an adult.  Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Sometimes when I talk about what I've manifested, people think that I'm talking about woo-woo nonsense. It can feel a little far-fetched. Like it's a skill that some people have access to and others don't. But I'm here to tell you that that is not the case. Yes, manifesting can be insanely spiritual. But there is also a formula for manifesting that is backed up by neuroscience. It is one of my favorite ways to manifest and by sharing this I hope it can help you manifest your wildest dreams.  In this week's episode, I will share with you the art of manifesting. I'll be sharing my step-by-step framework to manifest all of my desires without getting anxious and without putting pressure on timing. With this framework, I have manifested a cup of coffee, featured in the New York Times, and the clients I needed when I first started my coaching business. Tune in to this incredible episode to hear more about my manifesting journey and how you can manifest anything you want, too.   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Please join me in welcoming back our guest, Giovanna Gonzalez! Gigi just came back from a nationwide press tour for her book and it has been such a success. Now that she's completed the launch of her first book and her first book tour, she's ready to share what she's learned and prepare you for your very own pub date.    When picking a courage project, so many of our Courage Driven Latina clients choose to write a book. But the publishing industry is so closed off and secretive that it can be difficult to know where to start.    In this week's episode, Gigi will be sharing all the nitty-gritty details about writing and hybrid publishing her first book. That includes costs, timelines, coaches, and more! If you are interested in writing a book, this episode will be a treat! Tune in to hear everything about the writing and publishing process and how you as a woman of color can get paid for your work.    Resources Mentioned: Gigi's previous episode: EP. 113: Cultura and Cash: Managing Finances & Cultural Expectations w/ Giovanna González Preorder Gigi's audiobook hereSee Gigi's in person at a live book event near you!   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.  

My year so far has been filled with a ton of lessons and a lot of growth. My business and my life have been filled with so many ups and downs that I wanted to take a moment this week to reflect. I know that this is a part of life, ups and downs happen. But what you do when these ups and downs happen is what's important.  So what do you do when you don't know what to do?    In this week's episode, I'm going to share the habit I practice when I don't know what to do. Meditation has provided me with many solutions, and I just have to share my experience with you. Hopefully, sharing my story can inspire you to meditate when you don't know what to do, too.  Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

It's time to say goodbye to hustle culture and start focusing on what actually works - discipline. I used to be the type of person who wanted to hustle, climb the corporate ladder, and achieve the highest level of corporate success. But the more I tried, the more I knew that hustle culture is not at all sustainable.   Hustle culture is based on a lack mindset. The anxiety around hustling makes you believe that there's not enough to go around. It forces you to believe that if you're not working yourself to the bone every day, you won't get anything done. But that's just not true. What you're craving is not hustle, it's discipline.    This week's episode is a repost of our most popular episode. In it, I will explain the difference between hustle culture and maintaining discipline. Discipline is a much more sustainable way of thinking and keeps you focused even when you're not motivated. Discipline is crucial to achieving your long-term goals, and in this episode, I'm going to teach you how I became disciplined so that you can too.   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here.   Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Are you choosing to be underpaid and overworked? Maybe not consciously, but you are staying put at a job that doesn't value you. Times have changed, being loyal to the same company that's exploiting you isn't going to give you the career growth you deserve.  I know you want bigger and better things for your career, you just don't know what to do about it. Which is exactly why I'm going to share the secret to career growth - pivoting.  In this week's episode, we're talking about why a career pivot is not a nice-to-have, it's a must-have priority. Pivoting in my career is why I went from earning six figures working at a doomed company to running my own multi-million dollar coaching business. Four years ago, I took a leap of faith and embraced a new change in my life. And now I'm going to teach you everything I learned so that you can too.   Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Enroll in the Courage Driven Latina program now! Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.  

Do you want to reinvent yourself but you always find yourself feeling stuck? Before I met my Courage Driven Latina clients, they were feeling the same way. They tried to make a change on their own but their motivation always ran out after two weeks.    That's because motivation on its own always runs out. What these women needed, more than motivation, was community - and the Courage Driven Latina program gave them exactly what they were looking for.    This week's episode is a replay of our most recent webinar, “4 Proven Steps to Reinvent Yourself in Just 90 Days.” In this episode, you are going to learn why you resist change, how you can stop resisting it, and how to reinvent yourself. It doesn't have to take a long time and it doesn't have to be difficult. You can change your entire life in just 90 days. And I'm going to show you the four strategies that have helped me, and over 200 clients, reinvent ourselves. Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Enroll in the Courage Driven Latina program now! Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.  

Many of us were not taught how to set healthy boundaries. In fact, we were told that setting boundaries made you a mean and coldhearted person. But that can't be further from the truth! Believe it or not, setting boundaries is an act of love, and this week's guest will teach us how to set boundaries without losing our relationships.    Liz Torres is a Boundary Coach and Breathwork Facilitator focusing on helping first-generation empath Latinas set healthy boundaries. Growing up, Liz was the “family manager” and a chronic people pleaser. AKA she had a really hard time saying “NO”. After leaving an abusive relationship, she embarked on her healing journey diving into therapy and spirituality. Recognizing her empath nature, she understood the significance of boundaries and how they could have supported her growing up. Since then, Liz's goal has been to help others protect their energy by helping them set healthy boundaries- particularly focusing on the eldest daughters of immigrant parents. During her free time, Liz loves spending time with her hubby and their fur-baby Mamba. She recently rediscovered her love for reading so for all book lovers- feel free to send Liz your book recommendations! If you would like to work with Liz, you can find her on IG @wellnessbyliz or email her at hola@wellnessbyliz.com.   In this week's episode, Liz teaches us how to set and maintain healthy boundaries with our loved ones. She was not taught how to have healthy boundaries, and because of this, she ended up in an abusive relationship that she didn't know how to leave. But by setting boundaries and keeping them, she was able to leave that relationship and improve every relationship around her. Tune in to hear more about boundary setting and how it can improve your relationships!  Connect with Liz: Website: https://www.wellnessbyliz.com/  Instagram @wellnessbyliz Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Sign up for the 4 Proven Steps to Reinvent Yourself in Just 90 Days Webinar  Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

What are you waiting for? This week, I invited three amazing clients to the podcast to share their amazing journeys of self-discovery. They all knew that they needed to make a change, but they didn't know how to do it or where to start. That was until they decided to get out of their own way and just start.    Sunkin Duarte is a Mexican American, daughter of two immigrants from Michoacán, Mexico, who was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas. She is a multi-passionate woman who considers herself a spiritual empath and yogi, a trailblazing scholar and professional, and finally, a humanitarian who cares deeply about the BIPOC communities. Growing up, Sunkin was very academically focused, earning two full-ride scholarships to obtain her three degrees, and then in more recent years, breaking into the international development and humanitarian affairs field. Now, Sunkin spends her time giving back to her community through the Latinas in Progress Program of Hispanic Women's Network of Texas and her newly created business, Sunkin Yoga, a lifestyle and wellness coaching business. Her goal is to uplift BIPOC communities to live their most authentic, aligned, and empowered lives by practicing mindfulness, doing self-introspection work, and integrating healthy practices into their daily routines.   Jacqueline Torres is a wife, mother of four, RN turned real estate developer. After a hard year of financial uncertainty and having a new baby, she knew that she had to find a way to supplement their income. From Airbnbs to attending events, reading books, networking dinners, and listening to endless podcasts, she decided to take action, trust and believe in herself, and take a chance on new developments. Jacqueline partnered up with the right people, raised private money, and broke ground on her first new build!   Erika Padilla is a Mexican immigrant, a single mom of two, and the oldest of five children. She immigrated to the US when she was only nine years old and her world as she knew it turned upside down. She came to a new country without knowing any English and carried a whole lot of fear. She quickly became the kid who got picked on because she didn't understand anything. That just made me stronger and ever since I have seen everything as a challenge instead of a problem. She became a young mom at 23 who only found out she was pregnant three months before the baby arrived. Erika knew she had to give her child a better life, one away from addiction and money issues, so she moved in with the father's family. She made it work with her children's father for sixteen years before she decided it was time to leave him and start fresh. She is now working on a new chapter in her life, one filled with resilience and self-confidence.    In this week's episode, these three amazing women share how they got out of their own way and started creating the dream lives they knew they deserved. With the support of the Courage Driven Latina Program, each and every one of them are leaving toxicity behind. Whether that be toxic jobs or toxic situations, they are moving on to something better. Tune in to hear all of these amazing women's stories!     Connect with Sunkin: Instagram @‌sunkinyogaLinkedIn Connect with Jacqueline: Instagram @‌ jacquelinetorres_buildsLinkedIn Connect with Erika P: Instagram @eliteproperty_boss Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn Website: http://www.theerikacruz.com How to work with Erika: Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Join the waitlist for the Magnetic Mastermind here. Sign up for the 4 Proven Steps to Reinvent Yourself in Just 90 Days Webinar   

Taking control of my finances was one of the best decisions I've ever made, But, it was also one of the hardest things I've ever had to do because I had to do it on my own. I had to seek out resources and teach myself how to be financially literate. And because I did so much research on financial literacy, I know that this week's guest is not only a good friend, but she's also the real deal.     Jannese Torres is an award-winning Latina Money Expert. She became an accidental entrepreneur after a job loss led her to create a successful Latin food blog, Delish D'Lites. Now, she helps her clients and listeners build successful online businesses that allow them to pursue financial independence and freedom. Jannese is on a mission to educate marginalized communities on topics like entrepreneurship, investing, and financial independence through her personal finance podcast, “Yo Quiero Dinero.” Her new book, Financially Lit!, was published by Grand Central Publishing on April 30, 2024. Order your copy at financiallylitbook.com    In this week's episode, Jannese and I talked about the importance of building your wealth, being financially independent, and protecting yourself financially. As women in a marginalized community, we don't always have people teaching us how to take control of our finances. This is exactly why Jannese wrote her book, so that you can learn all this and more from someone who knows where you're coming from. Tune in to access all the info you'll need to start becoming financially lit!  Follow Jannese on: Order Your Copy of Financially Lit Now! https://financiallylitbook.com/  IG: https://instagram.com/yoquierodineropodcast  Pinterest: pinterest.com/dineropodcast  YouTube: youtube.com/c/YoQuieroDineroPodcast  Twitter: https://twitter.com/dineropodcast  TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdB1ydrw  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/yo-quiero-dinero    Follow Erika on: Website: www.theerikacruz.com Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn   How to work with Erika: Sign up for the 4 Proven Steps to Reinvent Yourself in Just 90 Days Webinar Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Book your Magnetic Mastermind consultation call today!    Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.

Happiness is literally at your fingertips, you just have to let yourself have it. And, ideally, everyone wants to be happy. But not everyone is putting in the work to actually achieve happiness.    There is work that needs to be done to be happy. You can't just let life happen to you, you have to decide what will make you happy and go for it. But in order to go for it, you have to be accepting of change.    In this week's episode, we talk about why you are the only person that can make you happy. Whether that's in relationships or at work or in your day-to-day life, the common denominator is you. You are the only person who can give yourself the happiness you're craving, and this week I'm going to teach you exactly how to give it to yourself.    Website: www.theerikacruz.com Follow Erika on: Instagram @‌theerikacruzTikTok @‌theerikacruzLinkedIn How to work with Erika: Sign up for the 4 Proven Steps to Reinvent Yourself in Just 90 Days Webinar Join the waitlist for Courage Driven Latina here. Book your Magnetic Mastermind consultation call today!    Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST.