I have SOMETHING to say!

The American expression "Don't poke the bear" serves as a warning against provoking someone powerful or instigating a situation that could lead to negative consequences. Referring to Puerto Rico disparagingly as a "floating island of garbage", has incited a strong and enduring reaction from the Puerto Rican community and its allies. This insult compounds the historical grievances of exploitation, disenfranchisement, and mistreatment that Puerto Rico has endured under colonial rule, intensifying the response. It highlights the broader need for respectful and informed discourse about Puerto Rico, its people, and their history. In this episode of “I Have SOMETHING to Say”, Chris Majocha and Samí Haiman-Marrero return after a busy summer tending to family, professional wins, and civic engagement. They were planning to start-up a new season of the podcast after the 2024 General Election, BUT thought it was critical to address the powerful force that is the Puerto Rican and Latino vote in American politics, reflective of a vibrant and growing demographic that values respect, family, and compassion. This voting bloc is diverse, encompassing a wide range of cultures, experiences, and perspectives, making it a significant factor in shaping local, state, and national elections. Their participation can sway election outcomes and direct attention to issues that matter deeply to their communities, such as education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and immigration reform. Samí is a proud Puerto Rican businesswoman, and while she remains poised during most of the conversation if you are sensitive to a Latina unapologetically exercising her freedom of speech…SEE YA!  Chris and Samí discuss the ongoing impact of 2017's Hurricane María, the resilience of the Puerto Rican community, and the importance of political engagement and advocacy to address these long-standing issues. Engagement in the electoral process allows the Puerto Rican and Latino communities to amplify their voices and advocate for their rights and interests. This impacts policy and decision-making and encourages a more inclusive and representative political environment. As the second largest Latino voting bloc after Mexican Americans, the Puerto Rican vote contributes to building a democracy that better reflects the diverse makeup of the nation, elevating the importance of participation and representation in creating equitable and just outcomes for all communities, including the fate and safety of undocumented families who are part of our Latino family. Since apparently, Puerto Ricans know so much about garbage…they are mobilizing to take out the trash on November 5. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset #Leadership #Humanity #Vote #PuertoRico #Latinos

Put on your seatbelts. In the latest episode of I Have SOMETHING to Say, co-hosts Chris Majocha and Samí Haiman-Marrero get real about the systemic neglect and misrepresentation faced by the Puerto Rican and Latino community in Florida. Joined by Florida State Representative Johanna López and Boricua Vota Founder Jimmy Torres, they lay bare the urgent need for engagement and education to dismantle harmful misconceptions about Latino voters and amplify their electoral participation. It's high time to confront the truth: language barriers and a lack of cultural competency are not just hurdles—they're deliberate obstacles keeping the Latino vote marginalized and underrepresented. The conversation calls out the glaring insufficiency of investments in culturally relevant messaging and resources, which are crucial for genuine outreach. Political representation isn't a luxury; it's a necessity to ensure that our voices are heard and our needs addressed. The Latino vote is not just influential—it's transformative, and it's time for everyone to wake up to its power. As we dig deep into this episode, remember: "Very soon, you will not be able to win an election in this country without the Latino vote." It's about time we fight back against ignorance and demand the recognition and respect we deserve. Tune in now and find out why the Latino vote is the game-changer we can no longer ignore. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #BoricuaVota #LatinoVote #Vota #Vote

Recent events have led many of us to experience a whirlwind of emotions, swinging between extreme joy and deep anguish. This episode of the “I Have SOMETHING to Say” Podcast focuses on the emotional whiplash caused by the exhilarating announcement of the Harris-Walz ticket for the U.S. general election and the profound grief following the tragic execution of Sonya Massey in her home by a police officer. Our guest, Deloria Nelson-Streete, Founder & CEO of ACE Solutions, joins hosts Samí Haiman-Marrero and Chris Majocha to discuss these starkly contrasting events from her perspective as a Black woman. Deloria shares insights on the emotional impact of these back-to-back events and the critical need to address racial trauma and ongoing work in our country. She reflects, "Navigating these feelings as a collective really is like emotional whiplash." The episode unpacks how injustices and violations of trust, particularly when they occur within one's own home, deeply affect the community's collective psyche. Deloria comments, "The idea of being violated in your own home, the place that is supposed to be your safe place, is something that you react to." As a coach and facilitator dedicated to combating bias through training and mentorship, Deloria emphasizes her commitment to collective success and equity. "I celebrate [the Harris nomination], but then I serve, right? Because I have to remember the people behind me," she notes. She adds, "Our body's ability to desensitize certain things so we can keep going is helpful, but it's also injurious." The conversation also highlights the importance of pausing and responding deliberately in challenging situations to prevent further tragedies. It underscores the need for empathy, awareness, and action to address systemic issues and create a more equitable society. Deloria stresses the role of those who can leverage their privilege—such as race, socioeconomic status, or access—to drive positive change. At the heart of fostering understanding and dismantling biases is education and a mindset shift towards inclusivity and fairness. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset #Leadership #Humanity

It feels surreal to announce that this is the 200th episode of “I Have SOMETHING to Say”, especially as co-hosts Chris Majocha, Dr. Xaulanda Simmonds-Emmanuel and Samí Haiman-Marrero reflect on the ups and downs of this journey that started in 2018. The initial planning happened on a business road trip, with a call to Chris to figure out what we needed from a technical standpoint to launch. They agree in that, "Sometimes the best ideas come when you just unplug and take a long drive." But the growth and evolution of the show, and its impact, have been driven by the diverse range of guests as well as the topics and industries covered. The importance of providing a platform for people to speak up and share their perspectives during the past 5 years regarding the good, bad, and ugly we have experienced personally, professionally, and as a nation, cannot be overstated. We've been through A LOT…all of us…yes, including you. In this episode, the co-hosts express their hopes for the future of the podcast and their commitment to continue creating valuable content by adding special “Issues2Impact” programs into the mix. They openly share some of the major changes they have experienced since starting the podcast and how it has influenced their perspectives. They discuss becoming parents, empty nesters, and business owners, and how these roles have shaped their outlook on life and work…their priorities and purpose. And while they ask themselves "Who knows where this journey is going to take us?", they also highlight that their advocacy voices have grown stronger. This has been the biggest reward, and for this, they are grateful to each other, their guests and everyone who has tuned in to share space, collaborate, have honest conversations, and support this podcast. As Chris points out, "I think being able to commit to something like a podcast for as long as we have 200 episodes and to put ourselves out there…we could have never done this alone." #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset #Leadership #Humanity

Promises, promises, promises…we all get spammed daily by lead generation companies that 'guarantee' they can help you get a gazillion hot leads that will land you hot new business. In this special “Issues2Impact” episode of our “I Have SOMETHING to Say” podcast, Dr. Xaulanda Simmonds-Emmanuel, Chris Majocha, and Samí Haiman-Marrero talk with John Nadeau, Founder/CEO of SpearPoint Digital about the challenges of finding and attracting clients for his digital marketing business. We explore the importance of networking, building a sales funnel, and effectively communicating the value of digital marketing services to small and medium-sized businesses. Our discussion also applies to small business owners dedicated to providing other types of professional services. The discussion includes how to use targeted content, such as reels and videos, to engage potential clients and drive conversions. Why? Two important reasons: 1. You must build awareness of your subject matter expertise, AND 2. You must build trust in your sales and marketing methods…otherwise, it's just more spam. Part of an effective approach involves casting a wide net and leveraging various strategies to reach potential leads with real potential. We highlight the value of personal connections and referrals from people who know and trust your work. We also stress the importance of measuring the effectiveness of different strategies and focusing on those that yield the greatest return on investment. Dr. Xaulanda emphasized these points, "There's no silver bullet. Fundamentally, people do business with people they know, like, and trust." The conversation touches on the use of social media platforms like LinkedIn to build relationships and establish credibility, concluding with the following advice from Samí, “Always provide value and build trust before making a sales pitch”. The power of personal branding and the importance of establishing roles, values, and expectations in business relationships can never be underestimated, so our Issues2Impact sounding board provides John tips on how to use LinkedIn for networking and engagement to solicit warm recommendations, as well as the value of creating case studies and repurposing content. When you clearly understand who your ideal client is and target them effectively, you can then start building sales funnel strategies to generate the leads and the cash flow you need to breathe and grow as a small business owner. #Issues2Impact #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset #leadership #cashflow #leadgeneration

Are you psychologically unsafe at work? Are the constant verbal jabs, innuendos, side-eye glances, and passive-aggressive comments making you sick to your stomach? In this special “Issues2Impact” episode of our “I Have SOMETHING to Say” podcast, Dr. Xaulanda Simmonds-Emmanuel, Chris Majocha, and Samí Haiman-Marrero talk with Dr. Juliette Nelson, Founder of JUNURI, about the concept of organizational trauma and its impact on individuals in the workplace. For the root problem of crappy work environments, Dr. Nelson offers up the following: "Broken people are leading other broken people and causing more brokenness." She explains that organizational trauma is not limited to isolated events but can also be caused by toxic work environments riddled with persistent unhealthy dynamics, discrimination, and microaggressions that simply never go away…and frankly make you want to RUN AWAY! Dr. Nelson emphasizes the importance of psychological safety and being able to be one's authentic self in the workplace...without compromising one's job or aggravating one's circumstances. She also highlights the need for understanding, grace, and empathy in addressing issues of privilege and marginalization to afford people an opportunity to grow through self-reflection. But sometimes change can't come soon enough, which is why so many people opt to leave the workforce and start their own business. The conversation explores the importance of self-advocacy and advocating for others in the workplace, stressing the need for setting boundaries. Chris, Dr. Xaulanda, and Dr. Neslon discuss the challenges of speaking up and the potential consequences (good and not so good), but also highlight the importance of seeking support and finding spaces where you can be yourself if you are not feeling psychologically safe. Whatever the situation, whether you're an employee or entrepreneur, Dr. Nelson encourages individuals to prioritize their mental health and well-being. For people who decide to go the business ownership route, she recommends that they allow their traumatic work experiences to inform their values and how they build their organizational culture to make a positive impact by breaking the cycle of toxicity.  #Issues2Impact #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset #leadership

What is the American way? In essence, it's a system that's working just fine…for some…not for all. In this episode of "I Have Something to Say," co-hosts Chris Majocha and Samí Haiman-Marrero have an exceptional conversation with an exceptional guest, Toni Hunt, Founder and CEO of The American Way, about how to combat socioeconomic barriers to deliver equity. "What I'm saying is, I'm not going to disrupt our capitalist society. I'm not going to be a hypocrite, right? We all benefit from the capitalist society. What I'm saying is, is that certain groups of people shouldn't be the underbelly just because their skin tone is melanated and their hair texture is more coily,” she says. Toni discusses the inspiration behind naming her company "The American Way" from her lens as an economist, and how it reflects their mission to propel equity through exposure and barrier elimination. We discuss the challenges and misconceptions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, highlighting the need for genuine, impactful practices beyond mere performative actions. Through engaging anecdotes and real-world examples, Toni illustrates the critical gaps in current DEI efforts and offers actionable solutions to bridge them…so they are not canned. "Many DEI initiatives and programs are being shut down or questioned because a lot of times it's performative and it's not really delivering the impact that is expected when you bring into the fold that layer of equity,” Samí emphasizes. Chris brings a personal perspective, shedding light on the importance of understanding privilege and the layers required to achieve true equity in organizations. "It doesn't have to be as scary as everybody thinks it is. If you are bringing in the right people, it's showing that you have the intention to change and to be better for your workforce and for your vendors and your clients and customers,” he adds. It's an enlightening conversation filled with wisdom, practical advice, and a compelling call to action for building a more inclusive and equitable future. As the nuances of creating equitable pathways are explored, the economic benefits of inclusivity and the importance of mental health in this transformative journey are also highlighted. So, whether you're a leader, an aspiring changemaker, or simply curious about the true American way, this episode is a must-listen. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset #Leadership #Humanity

Running for office takes courage, resiliency, and a lot of preparation, especially for Latinas. In this episode of I Have SOMETHING to Say Podcast, Samí Haiman-Marrero talks to María Revelles, a community organizer and advocate with whom she's collaborated, about what propelled her to finally run for Florida State's House of Representatives for District 47. María shares her journey and passion for making a positive impact on her community no matter where she lives. From her early beginnings in Puerto Rico to her work in New York and her current efforts in Central Florida, María has been dedicated to fighting for the rights of workers, addressing housing fairness, and supporting the Puerto Rican community. Her work has also involved creating programs to preserve traditional art expressions and culture and to promote environmentally conscious values. It's been her life's work to be the voice for the voiceless, including Mother Earth. María openly discusses her personal experience with cancer and the challenges of navigating the healthcare system. “Many people are burdened by medical debt, " she points out while adding that representation in the Florida legislature is crucial to address the needs of underrepresented communities. "We decide many, many things in legislative session every year, but we don't decide that we want to do the humane thing and give healthcare to those who need it." Her candidacy for office is driven by her desire to create change and fight for human dignity, affordable housing, good-paying jobs, strong public schools, and increased support for small businesses. “Our time in this world is limited, so if we can leave this piece of the universe better than how we found it, it's all going to be worth it. I think the journey through cancer, my cancer diagnosis, it's really one of the things that even pushed me further,” she states. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset #Leadership #Humanity

Since the beginning of time, humans have yearned to build COMMUNITY. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, Priscilla Guasso, Founder of Latinas Rising Up In HR™, and CEO of Manifesting Leadership Group, discusses with hosts Chris Majocha and Samí Haiman-Marrero the importance of building genuine connections and creating community rather than just networking. As the author of “Commünity” a fantastic little book/workbook available on Amazon, Priscilla shares her personal experiences of building community and the impact it has had on her life. She also highlights the need for self-reflection and being intentional about the people we surround ourselves with. This book should be required reading for everyone age 12+. The conversation explores the importance of building a community and the different roles that people play within our community. Priscilla believes that community can be built with anyone as long as there is mutual understanding and a willingness to open up and communicate with the end goal of connecting more deeply with people. She emphasizes the value of finding common ground and aligning values with others as we go about doing our business. Although open communication and honest conversations are sometimes hard to do, they are necessary to maintain strong relationships. Priscilla, Chris, and Samí share personal experiences and insights on how to manage expanding communities, ensuring that existing members don't feel displaced. They also discuss the power of letting others help you and the impact of community on personal growth and fulfillment. As a new mom, Priscilla discusses how now she's leaning in on finding her mommy community and on accepting the support of people who care about her (both in her professional and personal communities) while she navigates balancing motherhood with business ownership. Some key takeaways from this insightful conversation are: Different people play different roles in your community, such as the creative brainstormer, dreamer, challenger, thinker, motivator, decision maker, mentor, listener, connector, strategist, coach, advisor, and sponsor. Identify them and keep them close! It's important to have open and honest conversations with friends and family about your capacity and needs, especially during times of expansion, change or strife. Letting others help and being vulnerable enough to ask for help is a gift and strengthens relationships. Relationships and communities evolve over time, and it's important to revisit and adjust as needed. It's OK to let go of a relationship that's not working as it should. Being intentional about the quality of relationships in your community is more important than the quantity. Community is a lifeline that offers love, care, and support and helps combat loneliness. Listen in for tips on how to build a community you can trust, rely on, and grow with. “Life-ing” is not meant to be done alone. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset #Leadership #LatinasInHR #TogetherWeRise #AvanzandoJuntas #HumanResources

INCOGNITO GUEST! Sometimes you're in a pickle and simply need a sounding board. In this special “Issues2Impact” episode of “I Have SOMETHING to Say” podcast Dr. Xaulanda Simmonds-Emmanuel, Chris Majocha, and Samí Haiman-Marrero talk with ‘Negative Nancy' who is a business owner struggling with passion, direction, and the future of her business. It's an emotional discussion about the practical aspects of entrepreneurship, the struggle to find joy and fulfillment in business activities, and the exploration of potential career pivots. We disguise the identity of our guest to afford her a safe space to share her feelings as she asks us, “Do I continue to pursue entrepreneurship or do I get a job?” As this heartfelt and candid conversation progresses, our hosts provide insights, advice, and personal experiences to guide Negative Nancy through this journey of self-discovery and decision-making in the hopes of changing her mindset to that of a ‘Positive Paula'. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to entrepreneurship, business strategy, personal growth, and mental health. It addresses the challenges and opportunities of being an entrepreneur, the importance of defining a niche, creating packages, setting goals, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The discussion also touches on the healing process and the impact of childhood experiences on entrepreneurial journeys. Key Takeaways Entrepreneurship involves emotional and practical challenges that require self-discovery and decision-making. Career pivots and consulting roles can offer opportunities to leverage soft skills and creative interventions in the corporate sector. Understanding one's value proposition and articulating it in corporate terms can help in selling one's strengths and passions. It's important to focus on activities that bring joy and fulfillment and to consider pivoting away from aspects of the business that do not align with personal goals and values. Defining a niche and creating packages can lead to more consistent income and attract the right clients. Setting audacious yet achievable goals in smaller increments can help maintain focus and track progress. Taking breaks, establishing healthy boundaries, and celebrating small victories are essential for mental well-being and sustained productivity in entrepreneurship. Childhood experiences and trauma can influence entrepreneurial behavior and mindset, requiring intentional healing and self-awareness. Hold on to your seats as you hit PLAY.  This one is packed with a hell of a lot of zest! #Issues2Impact #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #urbander #udou #xauskygroup #mindset #podcast #entrepreneurship #smallbusinesses #keepingitreal

It's Small Business Month! So, how befitting that we launch the special “Issues2Impact” episodes of our “I Have SOMETHING to Say” podcast by talking with the Founder and CEO of Cansulta, Alex Kapelos-Peters, about the challenges faced by small businesses. Dr. Xaulanda Simmonds-Emmanuel, Chris Majocha, and Samí Haiman-Marrero serve as a sounding board to Alex as she shares specifics about her 4-year-old business. Cansulta's specialty is vetting consultants who are subject matter experts in a whole host of disciplines, helping business owners gain access to much-needed high-quality professional services instead of hiring someone full-time. We all had a lofty goal of addressing of the Top 7 Hurdles that start-ups have to overcome to get their businesses running and MAKING MONEY. However, this one episode wound up solely focusing on tackling “The Financial Concerns of Small Businesses”, and a little bit regarding employee recruitment and retention. The conversation kicked off with the importance of understanding cash flow, cost of living, and pricing to even attempt to run a small business, emphasizing the need for financial planning, forecasting, and finding the right team to navigate these challenges. In terms of employee recruitment and retention, we discussed the mindset shift required when you become an entrepreneur because it's not the same thing managing someone else's business and staff, to dealing with your own and building a team that understands this as well. These are two different animals. The winning “Drop the Mic” soundbite was:  "Every unproductive hour that I spend at your place, is an hour I'm not making money."  For a small business, the difficulty of finding the right balance between pricing, quality, expenditures, and maintaining consistent cash flow is persistent if you are not born with a silver spoon in your mouth. Overall, our discussion provides valuable insights and tips regarding financial matters for start-ups and small business owners who are new to all this. We stress the importance of networking, building relationships, and seeking advice from trusted advisors in the small business world. It is critical for small business owners to stay connected with others in the same boat and to seek guidance from those who are a few steps ahead. There is great value in attending intimate networking events and doing proper research to establish a clear vision and goals for your business before investing time, money, and resources into it. Listen in on how we candidly tackle the following topics: Financial Challenges Faced by Small Businesses The Importance of Pricing and Financial Planning Quantifying Objectives and Financial Considerations Balancing Profitability and Impact in Business Ventures Seeking Advice from Trusted Advisors Staying Focused on Your Goals Understanding the Financial Health of Your Business The Value of Investing in Research and Development Spoiler Alert: Alex Kapelos-Peters is coming back to complete an Issues2Impact Small Business 7-part series….yes, we're going to tackle the remaining top issues entrepreneurs face on a daily basis. AND, we're going to keep it REAL. #Issues2Impact #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #urbander #udou #xauskygroup #cansulta #mindset #podcast #entrepreneurship #smallbusinesses #keepingitreal

Candice Simmons is no stranger to showing up in a big way for historically excluded communities. In this episode of "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY”, hosts Samí Haiman-Marrero and Chris Majocha engage in a profound dialogue with Candice, who is a seasoned expert in the financial industry and a dedicated advocate for community empowerment. They dive deep into the themes of commitment to purpose, the power of advocacy, and the importance of investing in under-resourced communities.  About 7 years ago, Samí was working on jumpstarting a special project in a working-class community where 59% of the families lived under the poverty level. It's when she met Candice for the first time. Only ten minutes into her presentation, Candice committed to helping. Why so quickly? She knew this neighborhood well – it was where she lived when she arrived in Central Florida with her family. Candice shares her inspiring journey, from her robust background in banking to her transformative role in non-profit development and racial equity advancement. "Leadership is not just a title; it's an inherent quality everyone possesses, capable of initiating change," she shares. Candice's commitment to purpose illustrates the significant impact of leadership that prioritizes people and community over personal gains, stressing that it's critical to help create strong ecosystems that are self-sustaining. She also explains that when investing in under-resourced communities, it's important to understand that it takes time to see results and exercise grace. From her viewpoint, true dedication involves a deep commitment to the communities you serve, emphasizing long-term engagement over short-term gains. Moreso, Candice goes on to underscore that leaders must consider community benefit as the primary measure of success, moving away from self-centered metrics. "We must remove ourselves from the center. We can't approach our work with ego; we must focus on what the community needs," she states. Some key takeaways from this powerful conversation: The health of a community depends on the strength of its supporting ecosystem, promoting independence and sustainable growth. Understanding your core motivations and how they drive your actions and impacts. Everyone has the potential to effect change and lead within their own capacities. We should prioritize the well-being and advancement of communities over personal achievements. Leaders who commit to purpose need to find time to celebrate even the small wins and to rest to recharge. Tune in to gain invaluable insights into how leadership, commitment, and community focus can create lasting change and foster a culture where everyone thrives. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset

The status “Educated & Broke” is about to change for women in Central Florida thanks to the determination and perseverance of Arlene Blake, Founder and Executive Director of Women on the Rise. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, hosts Samí Haiman-Marrero and Chris Majocha discuss with Arlene the transformative program her organization has designed and implemented to solve the problem of highly educated women dissatisfied in their careers or unable to advance socioeconomically because they don't have the proper support and guidance.   Through Women on the Rise's “Educated & Broke” program, women are equipped with invaluable resources to articulate their worth, navigate salary negotiations, chart their career trajectory, secure mentors, manage finances, invest wisely, and kickstart side hustles. Notably, the program also extends a helping hand to single mothers by providing free childcare during workshops. Some of these highly educated women are on public assistance to complement their salaries and receive financial guidance to navigate the “benefits cliff” where an increase of salary doesn't necessarily offset losing the public assistance they need to meet the needs of their families. Arlene shares, "By us having these types of workshops and working with women, we've been able to see women completely renegotiate their salary, adding upwards of $30,000 to what they were making before." The ripple effect of empowerment spurred by Educated & Broke transcends individual participants, inspiring a cascade of confidence and self-advocacy among women. It also creates a pipeline of mentors that support other women in their workplaces and neighborhoods. Bolstered by grants and strategic partnerships, Women on the Rise is committed to expanding its reach and providing robust support to women in Central Florida. But they need all the help they can get. For more on the Educated and Broke program and to support Arlene's mission, please visit: https://www.wotrinc.org/educated-broke #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset

Small business owners who don't have the support of a daddy or mommy who can show them the ropes sometimes don't realize all the possible issues that can come up when employing people as a means to scale. Aside from dealing with the day-to-day drama that ensues when humans work together, many HR issues arise because we don't know all of the established regulations to properly run a business under the law – and keeping track of when they change the rules, too! Chris Majocha and Samí Haiman-Marrero welcome Mandi Waters, a dedicated Account Manager at Merritt Business Solutions to this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY to share some of the most common HR-related considerations to keep in mind when navigating the layered world of human resources. While she clarifies that she's by no means an HR expert, her role as a concierge service or broker for all HR outsourcing needs makes her an invaluable asset to small businesses. As Mandi shares her passion for assisting businesses with everything from employee administration to 401K management, she emphasizes the critical importance of compliance in the realm of HR. Despite the broad scope of human resources, Mandi's focus on ensuring compliance resonates deeply with business owners who understand the stakes involved. She basically helps small businesses protect themselves. What makes Mandi's perspective unique is her unconventional journey to HR. With a background as a Production Electrician in the Entertainment Industry spanning 18 years, Mandi made the courageous leap into entrepreneurship 12 years ago. However, a painful lesson learned from a stop order issued by the Department of Labor due to a compliance oversight shook her business to its core. It cost her $35K. Mandi's firsthand experience fuels her determination to empower business owners with the knowledge they need to avoid similar pitfalls. Throughout the episode, we explore key topics with Mandi such as the complexities of the new white-collar gig economy, managing 1099s, when to transition to W2s, handling interviews and expectations of the new generation, and building HR foundational assets that safeguard businesses against unforeseen challenges. Join us for an enlightening discussion with Mandi Waters as she shares her wealth of knowledge and practical insights aimed at helping businesses thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. As Mandi aptly puts it, "You're fine until you're not!" #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset

It was THAT GOOD. This is the first time we have a sequel with a guest from our "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY" podcast. In Part 2 of our conversation with Malik Williams, Emmy-nominated, platinum-selling composer/producer and Founder/CEO of Reel Sync Music, Chris Majocha and I have a front-row seat to ask questions about the intricacies of the music industry and Malik's views on the power of community-building. Malik shares with us the genesis of the Secret Society of Black Creatives, a transformative initiative aimed at creating spaces and opportunities for underrepresented voices in the industry. He sheds light on the challenges he faced and the resilience required to break through barriers and pave the way for meaningful change. Openly and candidly, Malik discusses with us the realities of navigating the entertainment industry, confronting gatekeepers, and seizing opportunities in an environment often rife with obstacles. His insights on showing up in our full power and embracing honesty, even when it's uncomfortable, resonate deeply, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in every aspect of our lives. Throughout our conversation, Malik emphasizes the value of building relationships and humanizing others, recognizing that true progress comes from fostering understanding and empathy within our communities. We explore the crucial role of diversity in communication, highlighting the need to articulate thoughts with respect and mindfulness of context and language. Malik shares personal experiences of navigating traumatic events, underscoring the power of vulnerability and the healing potential of friendship and gratitude. We discuss the importance of self-care and the necessity of prioritizing mental health in an industry often marked by intense pressure and expectations. As the conversation unfolds, we explore the significance of relationships and the profound impact of building a supportive community. Malik's commitment to sharing personal stories and being an open book serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the transformative power of authenticity and connection. Moreover, he stresses the importance of creating opportunities for others, fostering resilience, and promoting equity in the arts. Malik's unwavering dedication to entrepreneurship education exemplifies the significance of owning our narratives and opening doors for future generations of creatives. Join us as we conclude this enlightening conversation with Malik Williams, and as we reflect on the power of collaboration, community support, and the enduring legacy of authenticity in influencing positive change. THE BIG TAKAWAY:  Together, we can break down barriers, overcome racism, and foster a more inclusive and equitable society—one authentic connection at a time. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset

This conversation was like having an exclusive Backstage Pass into the world of music entertainment. I love it when Chris Majocha and I have a guest on our I Have Something to Say Podcast who is brutally honest like me. In this two-part series, we get to travel the world with Malik Williams, founder and CEO of Reel Sync Music, and an accomplished Emmy Nominated, platinum-selling composer/producer whose work has appeared in records, film, TV shows, and national ad campaigns. He gives us an in-depth look behind the curtain and shares powerful experiences that have shaped how he's chosen to lead his life…with purpose. In Part 1, we dive deep into Malik's journey, exploring his path from Dorchester, Boston, to becoming a prominent figure in the music industry. Malik shares with us his upbringing and how he discovered his passion for music. Growing up in Dorchester, he found solace and inspiration in the sounds around him, igniting a flame that would eventually lead him to pursue a music career. What sets Malik apart is his unique combination of interests, merging his love for music with his background in engineering and technology. This fusion opened doors to exciting opportunities, showcasing the power of interdisciplinary pursuits. Malik's transition from engineering to music production highlights the importance of authenticity and connection in the creative journey. His story serves as a testament to the transformative power of following one's passions and embracing one's true self. Throughout the conversation, Malik emphasizes the value of giving back and supporting others, emphasizing that success is not just about personal achievement but also about lifting others up along the way. He shares insights into creating meaningful experiences for fans, understanding that music goes beyond mere entertainment—it's about forging genuine connections and leaving a lasting impact. Furthermore, we explore how experiences and moral issues have shaped Malik's perspective, guiding his actions and decisions in an industry oftentimes plagued with shady characters and temptation. His commitment to authenticity and integrity shines through, setting a powerful example for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs alike. Join us as we embark on this enlightening journey with Malik Williams, uncovering the profound insights and experiences that have shaped his remarkable career in music. And next week, stay tuned for Part 2 of our conversation, where we'll continue to explore themes of diversity, communication, and the importance of building a supportive community in the arts. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #mindset

Last month we explained WHAT WE ARE DOING, in the new podcast “Issues2Impact” that Chris Majocha, Dr. Xaulanda Simmonds-Emmanuel, Valerie Solomon, and yours truly are launching very soon. This is the WHAT:  We will leverage our collective expertise in nonprofit consulting, content creation, leadership development, and business to empower founders, professionals, and leaders (our guests) who are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities but are challenged by a situation they need to figure out to navigate. In this episode of “I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY” we talk about WHY WE ARE DOING this. We kick off the discussion by acknowledging the frustration many of us have faced when encountering recurring problems without a clear path to resolution. Recognizing the value of collaboration and diverse perspectives, we will create a space where organizational leaders and entrepreneurs can find trusted guidance and honest advice from us.    Our goal is to provide a supportive network that breaks down barriers to information sharing, empowering individuals to overcome imposter syndrome and self-doubt. By offering (and recording) our step-by-step guidance and provision of tangible solutions, we hope to help our guests address their pain points and achieve their goals. So, whether you're facing obstacles in your business, navigating organizational challenges, or seeking innovative ways to drive social change, our podcast is here to support you every step of the way. We want to extend an open invitation to anyone who is grappling with a challenge in their work – simply reach out to us, and we'll schedule you as a guest on our show. Let us be your expert sounding board! Our WHY: We are genuinely committed to fostering collaboration and taking meaningful action. We're not just here to talk – we're here to drive real change by helping leaders address the issues holding them back from making an impact. Throughout our conversation, we emphasize the importance of perspective and mindset in problem-solving. We agree that adopting a growth mindset and exploring the concept of creating an alter ego to unlock personal and business growth is oftentimes the answer, especially for introverted leaders. We also dive into the significance of defining goals and values, both personally and professionally, and discuss strategies for alignment and achievement. From managing people to embracing uncomfortable situations and learning from mistakes, we explore the challenges and opportunities that come with growth. As our discussion unfolds, we reflect on the privilege of our experiences and the importance of giving back to our communities, encouraging everyone to lean into new experiences and embrace a mindset of continuous growth. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #Issues2Impact

The negative perception of consulting stems from the prevalence of consultants who talk a good game but fail to deliver the goods. We've all faced this problem – from small to large companies and organizations. But it doesn't have to be this way.  To talk about the art of vetting consultants, Chris Majocha and Samí Haiman-Marrero invited Alexandra Capellos Peters, the founder and CEO of Cansulta to I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY where she helps dispel the negative perception of consulting and explain how she built a business around this very problem she needed to solve for herself (classic entrepreneurship story!!!). Alex shares the challenges she faced in corporate jobs that drove her to become an independent consultant. However, as a consultant, she was also a small business owner who often struggled to find the right help and support to grow and succeed.  She emphasizes the need for help for start-ups and entrepreneurs as she recounts her own experience that led to the creation of Cansulta to bring the magic of world-class consulting to every business. Their rigorous process of vetting consultants includes the basics like screening resumes which combined with an automated interview and role-playing case studies creates a thorough vetting process. The goal is to find consultants who are experienced, versatile, and capable of applying their expertise to different types of businesses and situations…adaptability!   She generously explains the value of interactive case studies as a way to assess a consultant's skills, abilities, and mindset on the spot. Alex says that the role of data in the vetting process is also explored, acknowledging that while data can be helpful, it is not always the best indicator of a consultant's fit. The importance of finding the right vibe and energy in a consultant is what's oftentimes more crucial, as well as the consultant's desire to help small businesses succeed…as if they were their own. So, when's the best time to work with a consultant? This comes along with giving adequate importance to strategic planning. In short, the best time to work with a consultant is proactively and preventatively before you're in a pickle – although there ARE consultants for that as well. Hence, Alex's vision of changing the perception of consulting and creating a platform for identifying, vetting, and securing a pool of quality talent who can not only talk a good game but also deliver the goods. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast

2020 – a pivotal year marked by George Floyd's tragic murder and the global pandemic's disproportionate impact on distressed communities. As the world grappled with these challenges, the demand for social justice reverberated across various sectors, prompting organizations to reassess their approach to social impact. In this insightful episode of "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY," hosts Samí Haiman-Marrero and Chris Majocha have an inspiring conversation is Michael Houston, the CEO and founder of Mythix Sound Design and Director of Social Impact at Arnold Worldwide. Michael shares his remarkable journey from music production to advocating for social change within the corporate realm. Despite facing challenges as a marginalized individual at the beginning of his career, Michael found solace and encouragement at Arnold, where he's empowered to utilize his advocacy skills with gusto. However, getting to where he is now required the courage to quit a prior job that delivered more harm than growth. And it also required an attitude of being open to exploring opportunities that presented themselves, including entrepreneurship, with a collaborative spirit. Michael emphasizes the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in fostering spaces for social impact. He highlights the transformative (not performative) initiatives he's created and led with his team and the significance of grace and empathy while at work, particularly during tumultuous times like the pandemic. As he shares his lived experiences as a person of color who is part of the LGBTQ+ community he stresses the necessity of finding supportive communities, embracing intersectionality, and committing to personal growth through ongoing conversations about diversity and inclusion. It becomes evident as Michael's story unfolds, that leading with genuineness not only opens doors but also fosters meaningful connections that drive positive change. He delivers a powerful message: in a world yearning for social impact, authenticity is the catalyst for creating lasting and meaningful transformation. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast

When you lean into culturally sound content creation with heart, people will show up to support you. In this episode of "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY," Chris Majocha and Samí Haiman-Marrero sit down with Marky Marcano, the Founder and CEO of The Marky Marcano Productions and MMTV Studios to talk about how staying true to our roots and understanding audience preferences inform the continuous development of content…successfully.  Marky's journey as a Producer, TV Host, and culturally mindful Content Creator has been nothing short of remarkable. His stewardship of culture and tradition, as well as his impact as a Puerto Rican in the diaspora, has earned him the affection of loyal fans. “Even though I live in Florida, every time I visit Puerto Rico and I'm interviewed, my friends and relatives in my hometown knock on each other's doors to make sure they tune in to see me on TV. Having that kind of support is priceless and very humbling,” Marky shares. With over 14 years of experience, Marky has seamlessly transitioned from his early days in radio to embracing digital technology and podcasting in recent years. His dedication to his craft has earned him prestigious recognitions in his native Puerto Rico such as the Premios Paoli Award, among others. Every Monday, without fail, Marky broadcasts the Marky Marcano Show LIVE, showcasing his persistence, genuine love for community, and unwavering self-confidence. He just recently reached a major milestone –producing his 500th show. He marvels, “Imagine that! I started using my cell phone to create content. It was very hard to start, but now I have this platform to do what I love and share it with others.” Despite his global reach and success, Marky remains grounded in his culture and values. A champion of new talent, he opens doors and his generous collaborations with fellow creators is a testament to the power of authenticity and perseverance in achieving success while staying true to one's humanity. He's a fervent advocate for social causes and the arts, using his platform to invite the community into meaningful discussions and always ensuring to present a positive spin on trending topics to empower the Latino community. #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #MarkyMarcano #TheMarkyMarcanoShow #CulturallyRelevant #ContentCreation

Accentism is a thing…a discriminatory or unfair treatment centered on a person's accent or use of a language. It can represent a barrier to many, but not for Ana Carolina Salazar. To her, it's an advantage. In this episode of "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY" Chris Majocha and I sit down with the Founder and CEO of BOLD Digital + Hispanic Marketing Agency and as we dive into her inspiring journey of moving to the U.S. from Venezuela as a teenager, not knowing the language, and navigating the challenges of adapting to a new life in a new culture with a new family…well, let's just say we quickly agree that Ana is no pushover. Ana opens up about the emotional experience of losing her mother, and how she and her sister came to the U.S. to live with their father, who had remarried. As an English language learner, Ana recounts both funny and challenging anecdotes that shaped her early days in the United States. Despite the initial struggles, Ana now commands English fluently and has been recognized for her outstanding work as a Latina entrepreneur. Last year, Ana decided to launch her own podcast, "Hablamos Spanglish," where she explores the personal journeys of people who like her, have been oftentimes challenged by how they are perceived and who have bulldozed their way through obstacles that try to get in the way. She not only celebrates her culture and its diverse voices, showcasing the evolution of her accent from a perceived weakness into a strength – her podcast now expands into English, connecting even more souls with the shared story of resilience, passion, and victory! #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast #HabamosSpanglish #Accentism #Grit

Hey there, FAMILIA! This is a biggie. We just recorded a special milestone episode of our award-winning podcast "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY." Can you believe it's our fifth year already? Time truly flies when you're engaged in meaningful conversations. As we kick off this anniversary celebration, I've got someone special joining me – none other than my incredible co-producer and now co-host, Chris Majocha. Yes, you heard it right! Chris will be stepping into the limelight as we embark on this new chapter together. Let me take you down memory lane for a moment. Chris and I crossed paths during a board meeting at an arts organization. I was passionately advocating for historically excluded communities, and it seems my unapologetic stance caught Chris's attention. We share all the juicy details of our first encounter and how a lunch invitation followed. Little did we know that encounter would blossom into a profound and loving friendship that feels like family. Fast forward to the Spring of 2018, and together, we launched "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY." Over the years, we've been honored to host guests from incredibly diverse backgrounds, bringing you unfiltered opinions and raw authenticity. To mark this milestone, Chris and I decided to give the podcast a facelift and, in a moment of spontaneity, we decided to "renew our vows" on air. The result? Well, let's just say it took Chris by surprise, and our ad-libbed moment turned out to be both funny and heartfelt. So, without further ado, welcome to "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY" – where we promise to deliver genuine conversations about real issues. If you're tired of the same old canned answers, you've landed in the right spot. Buckle up for a rollercoaster of diverse perspectives. Join us as we dive headfirst into topics that impact our lives daily – from the boardrooms to the streets. Get ready to hear real people cut through the B.S. and deliver the discussions you've been waiting for. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey with us. Here's to many more years of "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY"! #Urbander #UdoU #IHAVESOMETHINGTOSAY #podcast

I met him at a recent business networking event and was immediately attracted by his energy…everyone is. He's a people magnet because he loves us all. In this insightful episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, I have a conversation with Dr. Gary Montoute, affectionately known as Dr. G, a trailblazer in the field of IT with a passion for human-centered leadership. In a world often perceived as data-driven and sterile, Dr. G has carved a path that puts people at the forefront of success. For him, nurturing people is at the heart of IT. Dr. G shares his journey of transforming workplace environments into hubs that invest in the development of individuals. His current triumph is building the most diverse team in his company, proving that inclusivity is not only a moral imperative but a strategic advantage. He believes that human-centered leadership begins with a profound ability to listen—with an open mind and heart. He dives into the significance of introspection and the impact of self-reflection in contributing to a better society that benefits everyone. One key takeaway is the profound significance of removing judgment from the act of listening. Dr. G emphasizes that true human-centered leadership begins with a non-judgmental approach to understanding others. By setting aside preconceived notions and biases, we open ourselves to a deeper connection with those around us. Dr. G encourages listeners to cultivate genuine curiosity and empathy, fostering an environment where individuals can express themselves authentically. In removing judgment from the listening process, we not only enhance our understanding of diverse perspectives but also contribute to the creation of inclusive spaces where every voice is valued. It's a transformative mindset that Dr. G believes is essential for building stronger, more harmonious relationships in both professional and personal spheres. Mentorship and meditation, according to Dr. G, are also integral components of human-centered leadership. They create spaces for individuals to comprehend one another and, equally crucial, to understand themselves. As we approach the close of the year and the dawn of 2024, Dr. G's insights couldn't be more timely, especially in the context of the ongoing global challenges and the upcoming U.S. general elections, proving that leadership rooted in humanity has the potential to shape a brighter future for us all.

In the intricate landscape of business ecosystems, a myriad of challenges often prevails—from oppressive rhetoric to limited opportunities, inhumane personalities, and a pervasive culture of fear. Yet, amidst this, there are beacons of change and transformative leadership. In this episode of "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY," I have a profound conversation with Deloria Nelson-Streete, a luminary in the realm of human resources, diversity and inclusion, and employee relations. With a wealth of experience spanning over 20 years, Deloria is not just the Founder of ACE Solutions; she is a fervent advocate for authentic, creative, and effective workforce transformation. The focal point of our discussion revolves around her exceptional ability to consistently lead with love—a quality that stands as a potent antidote to the oppressive rhetoric, draconian policies, inhumane personalities, and the pervasive culture of fear that often plagues business environments. Deloria underscores the importance of fostering a sense of belonging in the workplace by embracing the mantra "Come as you are." She emphasizes the risk inherent in stifling individuals from being their authentic selves, asserting that professionalism is rooted in behavior rather than superficial attributes. "Being professional is about behaviors," Deloria asserts, challenging the conventional notions that perpetuate barriers based on appearances, beliefs, and social markers. We discuss the impending transition to a new global majority in U.S. demographics, and the natural evolution in workplace dynamics as individuals from collective societies, where decisions are made for the benefit of the entire group, assume more prominent roles. This will herald an era of increased empathy, compassion, respect, and caring—emanating from the core tenet of love. Acknowledging the inherent challenges of navigating close proximity with those holding opposing values, I candidly confess my struggle to Deloria. In response, she offers a profound perspective, encouraging the consideration that aspects of love, particularly respect for human dignity and grace, can be demonstrated from a distance. Establishing healthy boundaries, she asserts, becomes an act of love—to oneself and to others kept at bay to circumvent conflict. Through Deloria's insights, we glimpse a future where love becomes the cornerstone of workplace culture—a powerful force dismantling oppressive structures and nurturing an environment where authenticity, respect, and compassion flourish.

What started as a chance meeting at a wedding where she was tearing up the dance floor turned into a revelation about the lack of true representation in scientific research environments. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, my guest and now friend, Dr. Alex de Verteuil shares her journey from the vibrant diversity of South Florida to the less diverse landscape of Oregon where she pursued her Doctorate in Genetics. This inspiring and enlightening conversation with an Afro-Latina geneticist who's breaking down barriers in the scientific realm delves into the critical topic of representation in STEM careers and why it matters. Driven by her experiences, Alex passionately discusses how systemic design, historically exemplified by events like the Three-Fifths Compromise of 1787, has perpetuated exclusion in scientific research. She emphasizes the impact of this exclusion on decisions that influence crucial aspects of our lives, such as health care. We explore the importance of diverse perspectives in scientific inquiry and decision-making. Alex advocates for a space where questions are asked about the composition of decision-making groups, fostering a collaborative environment that considers a broad range of perspectives. "We are now more open to ask questions such as, 'Are the right people here to make this decision?', which leads to informed decision-making because we create a space where we can explore diverse viewpoints together," shared Alex. She gives credit where credit is due for advancements that help people thanks to scientific research of years past. However, Alex also recognizes that it will take a lot more collaborative work to discover things that factor in missing data by bringing historically excluded populations into the fold (NOTE: Many claims supported by scientific research are void of true representation and are incomplete at best). This thought-provoking conversation highlights the transformative power of representation in shaping the future of science for the benefit of all humanity.

“The real question is are you positioned now to be work optional later?”, was the question Michelle Gordon, Founder and CEO of Investably posed that hit me like a brick on the forehead in this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY. When I shared my desire to continue to work only on passion projects and advocacy when I reach retirement age, she explained that I can do that as long as I fully understand what I have to work with now and learn how to protect and build upon it. As a mom and business owner who identifies as Latina, Michelle launched Investably, a registered investment advisory firm to help women-led households with financial planning and investment management after working 18 years in the Corporate sector. “Working in Wall Street, I realized that there was a need for guidance among women who look like me on how to be purposeful, strategic, and tax-efficient with their money,” Michelle states. “The end goal is to shift from working for the money and to get the money to work for you, and that requires knowing how the system works,” she adds. Michelle grew up under the watchful eye of her hard-working immigrant parents. She understands firsthand what it means to not have the benefits of generational wealth, of passed-down knowledge, and objective advice on financial planning and investments. So, she became 'that' teenager who created cashflow budgets, traded stocks, mapped out early retirement and real estate acquisition strategies, and opened a retirement account at 19. It's no surprise that she pursued a career in investments and wealth planning. Today Michelle is a Stevie Award for her fiduciary work with clients, and has developed a 4-week Financial Vitals Masterclass to help guide women who are heads of household in assessing their current financial status and create a roadmap to safeguard and grow the wealth they are creating, effectively and efficiently. See details here: https://investably.com/4-week-master-class. BTW, men are welcome, too! Something I learned in the conversation with Michelle is that wages earned by working for others are the highest taxed form of income. Since Latinas experience the largest pay gap when compared to White men (57 cents to their $1 for doing the same jobs) it's no surprise that before the pandemic, Latinas were creating businesses at a rate six times faster than all other groups, and some data suggests that trend has continued. This said it's just as important to learn the ropes with regards to running a business as what to do with the revenues you make. Asi que yo me voy a apuntar para tomar el curso de Investably.

The education system is broken. Once designed to standardize humans to become a workforce pipeline that met the demands of industrialization, it just doesn't work anymore the way it is. Thankfully, Adam Mangana, Chief Innovation Officer and Co-Founder of OptimaEd has developed a solution currently being implemented in Florida, and he joins me in this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY to talk about it in detail. He shares how he became a pioneer in creating Education Experiences using 3D immersive spaces, solving challenges presented by using 20th Century teaching methods in a 21st Century world. The biggest challenge is making sure our kids are Future Ready because the future is now. Adam is an educator with almost two decades of experience in education technology and creating teaching standards aligned with virtual reality curriculum, culminating with the launch of Optima Academy Online. It's a tuition-free online school serving students grades K-9 in the Sunshine State with over 4,000 highly interactive modules that provide learning experiences in 3D environments where students can learn (meaning inside it, virtually) with either the real-time guidance of a real teacher as an avatar or in a self-paced format. Optima has also secured funding to provide the hardware to all students – FOR FREE, delivering equitable access to advanced technology to historically disenfranchised communities. “In addition to self-paced and teacher-led coursework, students are able to learn by experiencing the moment in history from the perspective of the person who lived it by stepping into their avatar,” says Adam. He adds, “It brings into the fold the opportunity to cultivate empathy throughout the learning experience.” After realizing there was not much research regarding the impact and efficacy of virtual reality in education, Adam decided to get a master's at Vanderbilt University to conduct his own research to better inform this innovative approach to education. It paid off. Today over 400 students of all backgrounds have free access to Optima Academy Online. “By decoupling funding for education from zip codes we democratize and individualize learning. This also provides parents an option that delivers safety, socialization, and flexibility,” Adam points out. OptimaEd is also working with Stanford Children's Hospital to support students who are bedridden and unable to attend school. Adam's immediate goals are to consistently double the number of Floridian students every year and to expand to other states where parents are facing similar challenges brought on by COVID. “During the pandemic, people placed tremendous value on the gift of time. Spending time with family and loved ones and figuring out ways they could be with their children more was prioritized,” Adam observes. “I get it. My children are now learning virtually. It makes a difference when you can be there and make them a peanut butter sandwich during your breaks. But I'm always telling our team that we need to nail it before we scale it, so we are making sure to do this right,” he adds.

When artistry and entrepreneurship meet purpose, incredible experiences happen. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, doll artist Jayd Collins, CEO of Reborn Nursery Next Door shares how she transformed her passion for motherhood into a business that helps people during their most vulnerable moments. Jayd was exhibiting her artistry and product at the 2023 Greater Haitian American Chamber of Commerce Summit, but I had no idea she was a vendor. All I knew was that she had a beautiful newborn baby named Sage sleeping soundly in her arms…GOTHCA! The newborn was one of Jayd's handcrafted designs. I almost lost it. I just HAD TO HOLD SAGE once I realized that I would not be imposing (I know better than to ask a new mom that I just met if I can hold her baby).  As a mom of six children she homeschools, Jayd loves the feeling of holding a newborn baby. She first became a collector and eventually decided that she wanted to learn the art of creating original realistic reborn dolls. Self-taught, Jayd discovered that she had mad artistic abilities, and you can clearly see that she's a master reborn doll artist (see Baby Lavender in the vodcast). It's a skill she's constantly working at, commanding new techniques for hair and skin tone reproduction to ensure she can “bring to life” babies of diverse ethnicities. “You get varying reactions. Most people jump right in, and like you, want to hold them immediately. And some freak out because they find them creepy,” Jayd shares with a laugh. However, she points out that reborn dolls play a role in supporting people during their most vulnerable moments. After the loss of a child, while getting cancer treatment, to combat loneliness, for people with Alzheimer's or dementia in nursing homes, during end-of-life…the sensation of holding a newborn baby brings comfort to most humans. Jayd adds, “These dolls are very expensive because they require a lot of work to make them realistic. My mission is to create reborn dolls that can be more affordable for people to have access to the positive effects these dolls can have from a mental wellness perspective.” I told her THIS will be my gift to myself this upcoming Christmas!

The rapidly evolving landscape of the "white collar gig" economy requires a critical mindset shift that professionals in job transitions need to make. In this eye-opening episode of "I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY" my remarkable guest, Monique Mills, Founder and Chief Innovation Strategist of TPM Focus, joins me to talk about an urgent situation affecting highly qualified and experienced professionals. We both know too many individuals in transition after being laid off who are clinging to the idea of a traditional full-time job, complete with regular paychecks, corporate perks, and benefits. But, as Monique emphasizes, the urgency of the situation lies in that the longer they resist embracing the changing employment landscape, the bleaker their financial future becomes. As a seasoned entrepreneur who worked in corporate for a long time as well, she shares her invaluable insights. Monique has seen it all when it comes to career transitions and building companies from scratch. We discuss how the gig economy is evolving far beyond personal services and food delivery. Professionals from various backgrounds and across most industries are entering the “white collar” gig economy, and companies are actively seeking their skills and expertise on a project basis or in entrepreneurial roles – because they bring VALUE to accomplish specific goals. Monique predicts a significant shift in how employment is structured, and she shares why it's essential for everyone to acquire entrepreneurial skills, project management expertise, and sales acumen – all of which are underpinned by effective communication skills. “I know this may sound harsh, but it doesn't matter that you've been working for decades. You still have to prove yourself every day. Whether you are employed or are exercising entrepreneurship, your performance is always being carefully evaluated. So, it's time to let go of this entitlement mindset,” she warns. It might explain why job seekers are oftentimes required to go through several rounds of interviews, including with panels formed by company leadership, and then struggle to understand what went wrong – why did they choose someone else? This is a must-listen for anyone navigating the ever-changing job market and seeking valuable insights on how to adapt to the new world of work. Explore with us the concept of a "white collar gig" economy and learn how to stay valuable and relevant in this evolving landscape.

“It's OK to be a copycat, as long as you're copying the right cat,” shared Chris Brignolle, South East Executive Director for the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE), a global nonprofit that ignites the entrepreneurial mindset and builds startup skills in young people to ensure their success. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY we discussed, among other topics, how in business you don't necessarily have to reinvent the wheel; you just need to do it better or differently than your competition, whether you're delivering a product or service. A Brooklyn native, Chris experienced the devastating loss of a close friend as a young adult still trying to sort out what to do with his life. This propelled him to take a trip to Miami for a few weeks and he never went back to New York. He started working with youth, who like him, were trying to find their path and he was hooked from the get-go. Seeing himself reflected in the younger people he was supporting and guiding, he immediately owned and stepped into his purpose. Chris began his journey with NFTE in 2006 as a Program Director, responsible for promoting and implementing the organization's entrepreneurial mindset. Since then, his mission has been to ignite the imagination that takes students through the process of identifying solutions to problems and creating and refining an original business concept. He generously dedicates his time to working with students, teachers, volunteers, and administrative staff from community-based organizations to assist with tailored NFTE program implementation. This includes pitch competitions throughout the year which my colleague Michelle Cortes and I have both been honored to judge. For decades, NFTE has been literally preparing each new generation of CEOs and bridging the gap of access to business readiness for underestimated youth. Beyond the passion Chris infuses within NFTE, he's also an entrepreneur in his own right. For the past fourteen years, he has successfully launched a few companies in various industries: Fashion, Media, and most recently an importing and exporting company titled Nicaragua Cargo Express Inc. He's proud to say that his teenage children have also caught the entrepreneurship bug…they know Dad is the cat you want to copy. Me too!

Anti-immigrant laws impact the economy and our humanity. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, my dear friend Samuel Vilchez Santiago, with whom I've advocated for social justice causes at the local, state, and national levels, joins me to talk about Florida Senate Bill 1718 in effect July 1st, and its impact to our community, economy, and cost of living.  Samuel is Florida State Director of the American Business Immigration Coalition (ABIC), a bipartisan organization that engages activists, advocates, business leaders, and elected officials on the urgency of passing immigration reform that boosts our economy, creates jobs, eases the labor shortage, and supports families. He reminds us of the quote by Martin Niemöller: “First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.” Samuel also reminds us that anti-immigrant laws are nothing new. Proposition 187 in 1994 sought to limit services to undocumented immigrants and required verifying and reporting the immigration status of all individuals, including children. After 5 years of advocacy, this law was voided. SB 1718 in Florida, passed WITHOUT making it a felony to transport or live under the same roof with an undocumented person, under penalty of spending 15 years in prison, because of the strong bipartisan advocacy of the church community and organizations like ABIC. “This would have affected me directly because my grandmother came to visit from Venezuela, and we are in the process of getting everything in order for her to stay with us, but her undocumented status would have made it a felony for us to care for her. Thankfully, advocacy works, and we are determined to overturn this law altogether,” Samuel shares. It's hard to determine the impact of SB 1718 because investments are rarely made into doing research about our community. The Mexican Consulate in Orlando assisted 200 people daily, and they're now down to 40. Many construction sites are at a standstill. Latino families are panic-stricken this Back-to-School season, especially those with mixed status.  Florida's economy will lose billions in spending power and the taxes contributed by immigrants. Businesses in Tourism, Hospitality, Construction, Agriculture, Manufacturing, and Healthcare across the state are starting to feel the impact, too, because 1 in 4 workers in Florida is (was?) an immigrant. Floridians will now also likely see the price of food and housing go up as undocumented workers and their families leave the state. They are leaving for Georgia and the Carolinas. Florida already has the nation's highest inflation rate, sitting at 9% in comparison to 4% in the rest of the country. Take heed, speak out, so there's someone there when they come for you.

“The Daughters of Latin America are spread throughout the four corners of the world, and they are bound by their connection to the land no matter where they are,” says Sandra Guzmán, award-winning author, editor, and documentary filmmaker in this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY. For decades, Sandra's work has explored identity, land, memory, race, sexuality, spirituality, culture, and gender. She was a producer of The Pieces I Am, a critically-acclaimed documentary about the art and life of her literary mentor Toni Morrison, and she is the author of the non-fiction feminist book, The New Latina's Bible. In all of her projects she's guided by what she needs to be doing at the present. And THAT's the present – the gift. During the pandemic, Sandra was presented, gifted, the opportunity to curate and edit Daughters of Latin America, a groundbreaking anthology released this week by Amistad Press, an imprint of HarperCollins. Through this book, she creates a space to illuminate brilliant writers who have achieved acclaim, are on the rise, and women who have been underappreciated, erased, and forgotten. These Daughters skillfully express themselves through poetry, speeches, letters, essays, drama, memoirs, humor, short stories, songs, chants, diaries, and novels. Sandra masterfully weaves his collective work from 140 women writers, scholars, and activists from across the world that spans time, styles, languages, and traditions. “As an Afro-Indigenous woman from Puerto Rico, my first instinct was to include indigenous and African Latinas and defy the imperialist definition of what comprises Latin America,” Sandra explains, highlighting the inclusion of voices from Haiti, Guadalupe, Brazil, Mazateca, and other non-Spanish speaking nations. This required a team of several dozen translators to step in to expertly deliver the writings in English for the book launch this week, and for the Spanish version that will come out in November. In one word Sandra expresses her gratitude for everyone involved in the birth of this book that will bring the voices of Latine women out of their invisibility – “I want to say, Bo'matum, the sacred thank you in Taíno.”

There's chaos in Hollywood – the writers' strike paralyzed production and everyone attached to the entertainment industry is feeling it. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, I have an enlightening conversation with Miguel Berg, the CEO of Bravoecho Entertainment, to discuss the topic of navigating Hollywood and owning our stories. Miguel brings with him over 15 years of experience in the industry. Having worked in various capacities and learning from those who have paved the way before him, he recognizes the need for change in Hollywood, which also INCLUDES increasing the representation of Latino executives. Miguel candidly sheds light on the underrepresentation of Latinos in Hollywood. He highlights the startling statistics that reveal the lack of Latino executives, with less than 2.1% of TV executives and 1.8% of film executives being Latino, according to the 2020 UCLA Diversity Report. Moreover, he emphasizes the immense untapped potential of the Latino community's $2.8 trillion consuming power. It's a pretty simple business proposition – the more we see ourselves in the stories that are produced, the more we will spend to see/listen/experience said stories. Miguel's knowledge of the transformative potential of diverse representation in the entertainment industry led him to exercise entrepreneurship in this space by founding Bravoecho Entertainment. As we explore the challenges of navigating Hollywood and the importance of owning our stories, Miguel shares first-hand accounts of triumph and determination in the face of adversity. Throughout his journey, Miguel has experienced a lack of recognition and opportunities for Latino professionals. He has been told he wasn't "major leagues enough" and was discouraged from standing out and embracing his diverse range of skills. Despite this, Miguel remained proud to represent his culture and his experience as a first-generation Colombian American in the industry. Miguel's success has not been without its share of allies and champions who have supported him along the way. He acknowledges the individuals who have stood by him during challenging times and recognizes their contributions to his success. Together with a group of talented, fierce, and diverse executives, Miguel is committed to building collective stories and igniting the flames of change that the industry of entertainment desperately needs.

I think we can all agree that “making it” in the music industry requires a champion. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, I'm joined by José Maldonado, Account Manager at Marmoset Music, a pioneering music agency based in Portland, Oregon. He shares his inspiring journey into the music industry and his role in creating pathways to mainstream media for independent artists. José's introduction to Marmoset came in 2016 when he attended a “Listening Hour” hosted by the company. Instantly captivated by the atmosphere and the mission of Marmoset, he knew that he wanted to be a part of this creative community. Although he didn't get the job initially, his perseverance paid off, and he was eventually called upon to join them. From that moment, José found a place where career growth, inclusivity, and a true sense of community converge. Working at Marmoset, the world's first B Corporation music agency, allows him to fulfill his purpose and contribute to important causes. As a music agency, Marmoset represents diverse, emerging, and independent artists, bands, and record labels for licensing. Their Music Production Team specializes in creating original music, soundtracks, and scores for brand campaigns, film, and television, revolutionizing the mainstream media landscape, empowering independent artists, and championing diversity and inclusion in the music industry. Marmoset's values shine through in their daily interactions, their flexibility and adaptability, their passion, and their collaborative nature. They challenge, encourage, empathize, and listen offering unwavering support to local and indie artists. During this episode, José sheds light on Marmoset's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as a Certified B Corporation. As a person with an immigrant background, José is deeply passionate about immigrant rights and social justice. He emphasizes the significance of representing underserved and underrepresented artists in the mainstream media industry. Marmoset goes beyond just providing tangible opportunities; they also identify diverse talent, provide capacity building, and foster collaboration among artists. By listening to their interests and dreams, Marmoset creates an environment conducive to growth and success. The company's values can be applied to recruitment practices across all industries where representation is critical. Marmoset believes in upskilling individuals, fostering collaboration through peer-to-peer mentorship, and connecting people with the right resources and networks to help them achieve their career goals.

Health disparities persist because the disconnect between managerial teams at service providers and the populations they serve persists as well. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY I talk about the uphill battle to change how we deliver healthcare with Dr. Edith M. Nieves López, a fierce advocate for health equity and creating clear pathways for minoritized people to access effective and culturally mindful care. Dr. Nieves López is a board-certified, bilingual pediatrician with over 10 years of experience. Her work in the U.S. healthcare system is informed by having initiated her medical career in Puerto Rico – which affords her a different perspective. As a Puerto Rican doctor working with Puerto Rican patients in Puerto Rico, the lack of historical context and cultural considerations in patient-centered care was not a thing to worry about. Her knowledge of historical context and cultural considerations was embedded into the provision of medical attention and treatments, and it was expected. Transitioning to working in the U.S. mainland in the public health arena has now afforded Dr. Nieves López first-hand hands-on experience with diverse patients, and due to her unique “outsider” lens, she was quickly able to identify inefficiencies, disparities, opportunities, improvements, and solutions that can enhance the well-being and quality of life of patients of color. What's even MORE awesome about her is that she's not shy about calling out social injustices that impact health equity, physical and mental health, and survival rates. A true and vocal advocate, Dr. Nieves-López states, “Communities do not need representatives, they need us to listen to their collective wisdom to design and enact effective policy. There are key players in the system opposing measures that would effectively empower our community. Public health will continue to fail communities as long as this power structure stays in place.”

There are so many career choices these days for youth entering the workforce making it daunting to “find yourself”. If you add to that the shift to automation, a new remote work culture, and increased value/acceptance of certifications vs. degrees, it's enough to make your head spin. So, I invited my friend Magda Vargas-Battle, Founder and President of Performance Improvement to be my guest in this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY to share specifics about digital career assessment tools that serve as a compass for youth. With over 20 years of experience in Business Consulting, Recruitment, Talent Management, Behavioral & Skills Assessments, and Professional Development, Magda is very adept at helping humans reach their full potential. She realized that there was a void in supporting today's youth using competency assessments that could help guide them, especially Latino students and their families. Magda is on a mission to share the availability of Tu Talento Finder (Your Talent Finder), an online, customized, and validated bilingual tool to successfully identify skills and gaps to direct youth toward the career paths that will bring them joy. It determines which jobs (out of 400+) will best align with each student taking into account three factors: their Cognitive Abilities, Personality Traits, and Interests. My daughter Catalina who is 13 already knows the career path she wants to take, so I asked her to take the assessment (worth every penny and it didn't break the bank). She completed the Tu Talento Finder assessment in 45 minutes and within seconds she had her reports. We marveled at how spot-on the results were: she will find joy and will excel working in production within a creative field. Magda says that the reports are helpful for both students who are unsure about the professions they want to explore, and those who are decided. “It helps boost their confidence, self-esteem, and sense of security in the choices they make, alleviating uncertainty, anxiety, and self-doubt,” she emphasizes. To learn more about Tu Talento Finder, visit: https://www.tutalentofinder.com

Only 8% of professionals in STEM careers identify as Latino, while 20% of the U.S. population is Hispanic. This will change for the better thanks to the commitment and dedication of people like Ana Vaca, our guest in this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY. As a Mathematics educator, Ana is passionate about creating an equitable classroom environment that encourages students to see their potential as learners of mathematics, and in pursuing a wide variety of career paths to debunk stereotypical societal expectations. Ana gets it. She's a first-generation immigrant who can empathize with the challenges and barriers experienced by undocumented and mixed-status students. This is why she strives to create safe and inclusive spaces in schools that support the unique needs of immigrant families. By leading professional development and immigrant-centered workshops to create a learning environment where all students, regardless of their immigration status, can achieve their fullest potential, SHE IS PAYING IT FORWARD. You see, Ana is very thankful for the adults who once guided her as an undocumented student learning how to navigate the U.S. school system. She fondly recalls how from an early age her teachers noticed her brain was wired to excel in Math. So, they mentored her, helped her enroll in STEM programs, and encouraged her to pursue a college degree.  She realizes how blessed she was because this was not (and still isn't) the experience of many Hispanic children who are often dismissed as candidates for university studies – much less in engineering, technology, math, or science. Thanks to her advocates and champions, Ana went on to earn a B.S. in Mathematics and followed her passion for teaching. Each day, she pays it forward by mentoring, guiding, and instructing entire families. Through her devoted attention to both their academic, and basic human needs she makes sure immigrant youth have the necessary resources to fulfill their dreams and attain socioeconomic mobility along with their parents.

In 2017, when Hurricane María impacted Puerto Rico, I met Dr. Ashley Saucier through email and then a phone call. She had access to medical supplies and planes and was in the thick of coordinating disaster relief and medicine to be flown there. We quickly became comrades (or comadres) sharing information and supporting each other's efforts to help prevent an even larger health crisis on the island – depleted of most of its resources. We reconnected through LinkedIn a few weeks ago and in this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY she shares how she's become an influencer and healthcare advocate from the lens of being a mom AND a physician specializing in pediatric emergency medicine. After the catastrophic flooding in Baton Rouge, Louisiana where she's from, Dr. Saucier along with some of her friends, formed BREAC225 (Baton Rouge Emergency Aid Coalition). Since then, they have been able to aid in hurricane, flood, and other disaster relief efforts due to their expertise in the matter and because their hearts are filled with compassion.  She's also part of a network of thousands of ‘mom physicians' from across the country that are quick to intervene in moments of crisis. When Dr. Saucier is not saving someone, she's being a scientist and encouraging her two boys to get down and dirty with their home experiments. “Kids are born scientists, and there are many ways you can foster curiosity, experimentation, and discovery in children right at home. It's OK if they make a mess!,” she shares. After being terminated by the hospital she had been working for almost a decade, she's now dedicating her time to exercising entrepreneurship. Amid this transition, Dr. Saucier is excited to have the freedom of investing her energy and resources into creating a platform that will provide parents with easy, fun, and inexpensive ways to do science at home. And while she certainly hopes no other catastrophes happen, if they do, she will continue to show up for communities in need to help lessen their sense of fear, loss, and despair. Ashley, you are my SHERO!!!

Timing is everything. Joe Lugo, Founder & CEO of J^3 Creations and I have been trying to have this conversation since FOREVER. As Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) experts we are faced with the constant challenge of clarifying what DEI is and is not. And with this week's new law banning DEI from being taught in State colleges in Florida (we both live in the Sunshine State – yeesh!), the Universe had already afforded us some time LAST WEEK to record this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY focused on…yeah, you got that right…DEI! Joe and I discuss the differences between a multicultural marketing agency and DEI practitioners, and how they can complement each other, despite their very distinctive roles. We agree that “Sunday morning is the most segregated hour across the nation,” as Joe observes, and that although multicultural marketing agencies have been around for decades creating culturally relevant campaigns to attract diverse consumers (oftentimes perpetuating stereotypes, too), practicing DEI is about advocacy for social justice in the workplace and society anchored in respect for human life and dignity. “Disrespect is disconnect,” adds Joe, and he's right. Diverse employees, consumers, vendors, and communities who do not feel valued and respected will simply disengage. We are now counting on Corporate America to double down on their investment in building trust through DEI before bans are passed to control what you can or cannot do as a private business in the free market (i.e., the State of FL vs. Disney). Why? DEI is good for business. Following are some basic distinctions between multicultural marketing and DEI: Multicultural Focus: Understand nuances of diverse cultural/ethnic groups, with the goal of connecting with specific demographics. DEI Focus: Create inclusive and equitable environments, address systemic biases, promote diversity, and ensure equal opportunities for all individuals. Multicultural Target: Reach audiences within cultural/ethnic groups with messages tailored to their values, customs, language, and preferences. DEI Target: Create a sense of belonging for all individuals, regardless of background, by addressing systemic inequities and promoting diversity and inclusion at all levels. Multicultural Strategies: Campaigns, traditional and digital media, public relations, and other forms of communication that deliver diverse groups. DEI Strategies: Inclusive policies, diversity training, and addressing bias in recruitment and promotion practices. Multicultural Agency: Primarily operates in the marketing and advertising industry, serving clients who want to target specific cultural or ethnic markets. DEI Experts: Work across various sectors including corporate, nonprofit, government, education, and healthcare, aiming to foster inclusive and equitable environments. Multicultural Outcomes: Successful marketing campaigns that resonate with diverse target audiences, resulting in increased brand awareness, customer engagement, and revenue. DEI Outcomes: Workplaces where all individuals feel valued, respected, and have equal opportunities, leading to improved employee satisfaction, productivity, and organizational performance. Multicultural Expertise: Cultural research, market analysis, language adaptation, and effective communication strategies tailored to specific cultural/ethnic groups. DEI Expertise: Knowledge of diversity issues, social justice, equity frameworks, organizational change, and the design and implementation of DEI initiatives/programs.

What do advocacy and support look like for Hispanic Business Enterprises (HBEs) so they can actually have equitable access to procurement opportunities? Meet Alma Del Toro, Co-Founder of BlueWave, a Supplier Development Program designed to strengthen Latino-owned businesses and get them BIG BUSINESS READY. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, Alma shares how she partnered up with Co-Founder Eduardo Nuñez, also a former C-Level executive in the oil industry to create this much-needed training and capacity building curriculum to help business owners like me attain the required documentation and knowledge to align with the rules and regulations of most procurement departments in Corporate America – across all industries. URBANDER had the privilege to participate in Blue Wave's first cohort with the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce sponsored by JPMorgan Chase. I'm very grateful to have been nominated by my cheerleader at Chase here in Orlando, Janice Lopez, and to have been accepted into the program. Access to this type of resource and support to scale in a significant way can be costly and difficult to secure. As we look forward to celebrating the upcoming celebration of URBANDER's quinceañero in business, I'm delighted that we were the recipient of this invaluable gift in the form of BlueWave's hands-on guidance. The initial self-assessment was extremely helpful in benchmarking our procurement readiness, and each session was a masterclass in compliance, policies, and procedures. I vividly recall when we were encouraged to access BlueWave's Document Library to see samples of how to implement best practices in operating a business. I was in disbelief and nearly cried; it was the first time in 15 years that I have received such a generous amount of assistance accompanied by Alma's outstanding level of coaching. Result: URBANDER received the PLATINUM badge – whoot whoot! This experience has been transformational, and I know that URBANDER, as well as the rest of my comrades in this cohort, will now have the tools and knowledge to seek opportunities that will exponentially grow our businesses. Alma Del Toro and Eduardo Nuñez, your leadership, authenticity, and selflessness does not go unnoticed. URBANDER's forthcoming quantum leap is part of Blue Wave's legacy, and it will impact wealth creation in our families for generations to come.

I know so many people that have started their own business in the last couple of years, and a lot of them are fellow Latinas for whom it's especially difficult to get access to…basically everything (i.e., introductions, invitations, capital, contracts, mentorship, sponsorships, certifications, commercial spaces, manufacturers, press and media coverage, etc.). So, for this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY I asked my dear friend Sandra Noemi Torres, Founder and CEO of Plan Your Company, to join me to discuss where, as Latina business owners, we have learned to invest our time, energy, and resources (aka money).  We figured this conversation could perhaps prevent fellow entrepreneurs who identify as women of color from experiencing some of the pitfalls of “not knowing what you don't know” regarding business ownership. This is a very raw and candid conversation – that even takes a turn into existentialism, spirituality, and how we are all interconnected (Sandra takes it there!) – and we hope it offers some insight into what and who to avoid, what not to waste your hard-earned money on, where to invest your energy and re$ource$, and the importance of being mindful of the time you dedicate to yourself, certain tasks, other people and pursuing opportunities. It becomes very real very quickly that self-worth is at the epicenter of how to maximize all three: YOUR time, YOUR energy, and YOUR resources. It's YOUR business and at the end of the day…you call the shots! ¡Tú eres la jefa!

We have all been challenged in recent years to pause and consider other perspectives. And it's not always as easy as it sounds in the workplace because most people don't control how businesses are generally run. They must abide by the rules and policies of their employers – like them or not. However, the pushback and tension are REAL and PERSISTENT. In this episode of “I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY” I talk to Ilhiana Rojas Saldana, Founder and President of BeLIVE Coaching & Consulting, dedicated to supporting companies with their Executive and Leadership Transformation Strategy. We take a deep dive into the generational clashes that are happening in workplace cultures across the U.S. and how to best navigate them. Ilhiana points out that for the first time ever there are five generations of employees represented in work environments (traditionalists, baby boomers, Generation X, millennials/Gen Y, and Generation Z), all with very distinct values. When we add into the mix (and tension) the fact that the younger generations are the most diverse we have ever experienced in terms of gender identity, race, and ethnicity, let's just say – it's A LOT to navigate from the employer's perspective. Communication is critical because if everyone is not on the same page with regards to the expectations of each individual and each team, then performance will be at most satisfactory and oftentimes disjointed or “meh”. From a generational standpoint, people tend to have differences in three areas: what they value at work, how they behave at work, and their skill sets. For example, while a seasoned salesperson might have more years of customer service and forecasting experience a recent college grad is a native speaker of tech and Web 3.0. Something's gotta give. We can all start by listening with empathy and admitting that we don't know it all. There is MUCH we can learn from newer as well as more mature colleagues. We also have to come to terms that things will never go back to pre-pandemic work experiences because people are prioritizing LIVING…and many want work with PURPOSE. So, at the end of the day, if people feel valued, appreciated, and respected in the workplace, they will feel their employer actually cares about them and they will want to stick around for the long run. Otherwise, it's time to BOUNCE!

I'm experiencing a roller-coaster of emotions as I read Passion and Purpose: 21 Inspiring Stories from Women in the US Virgin Islands on Business, Leadership, and Life. In this episode, if I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, the co-authors of this incredibly powerful anthology of essays, Jo'Hanna D. Samuel and Vanessa I. Farrell reminisce on the special circumstances under which this book came to be. We all met in the summer of 2019 while enjoying the inaugural Annual #Girlfriendism Retreat in St. Croix. Both Jo'Hanna and Vanessa are businesswomen, accomplished speakers, and best-selling authors, so they inevitably gravitated towards each other, quickly realizing they had the same idea in mind of elevating the voices of female leaders from the USVI. Passion and Purpose is “an amazing journey of unshakeable faith in the face of adversity, unknowns, and triumphs. This compilation of stories was written by women for women to inspire, motivate, and strengthen your confidence to follow your dreams, rise above fear, and live out your life's passion and purpose.” This is the formal description of the book, and while it's spot on, I share with Vanessa and Jo'Hanna how I don't know what to expect with the turn of each page – and in a good way. Will I cry, feel enraged, laugh out loud, pause to ponder or be inspired? Each story is mesmerizing and transformational. The authors wear their hearts on their sleeves and tell us how they pushed forward in pursuing their goals with confidence and clinging on to their faith in a higher power, even during the direst situations. But the best part is that men who have ventured into exploring these life-changing essays are also hooked with Passion and Purpose. They are likely struck by the voices of women who are exercising their leadership through storytelling because they are often dismissed, unheard or unrecognized in society. We celebrate that the majority of the authors are first-time writers, and invite everyone to buy a digital copy (hard copy will be available soon!): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BYY6T54L/ref=kinw_myk_ro_title

Writing is art, and Dr. Luis Martínez-Fernández has mastered it.  He's our guest in this week's episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, to talk about his life experiences and his new book “When the World Turned Upside Down: Politics, Culture, and the Unimaginable Events of 2019- 2022.” As a seasoned historian, university professor, nationally syndicated columnist, consultant, and public speaker, he has A LOT TO SAY and shares some of the developments in the United States and across the world that have impacted the world that he highlights in the book, including the parallels of an 1800's Civil War United States with the current sociopolitical landscape in the nation. Dr. Martínez-Fernández describes how by the age of 10 he had already experienced exile from Cuba and migration several times – Miami, Perú, Puerto Rico. All these lived experiences fueled his interest in understanding the history that caused them and writing about them. His college studies at the Universidad de Puerto Rico also afforded him a nurturing learning environment where he began exploring graphic design. In Orlando since 2004, Dr. Martínez-Fernández's expertise in international affairs, Latin America, the Caribbean, education, and US Latinos/Hispanics makes him a valuable asset to the students of the University of Central Florida (UCF), which is classified as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). This means that over 25% of UCF students identify as Hispanic. It's awesome to learn that his “Puerto Rican History” class is very well attended. He says that for a researcher like him, Orlando is a laboratory of sorts, giving us an idea of the U.S. Hispanic experience, both for U.S.-born and migrating families.  “When the World Turned Upside Down: Politics, Culture, and the Unimaginable Events of 2019-2022” will be presented at the Dr. Philips Performing Arts Center in Orlando in the DeVos Family Room on Thursday, Apr 6, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. This is a FREE event and registration is strongly encouraged to attend:  https://arts.cah.ucf.edu/event/when-the-world-turned-upside-down-cta-2023/ Dr. Martínez-Fernández will share excerpts of this collection of 65 essays and opinion columns that stands at the intersection between opinion journalism and history, its individual components offering a dialogue between past and present. The talk will be accompanied by a visual presentation that includes a selection of editorial posters related to the book's topics that will be on display.

Ladies. We are riddled with guilt. EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Good news: you can stop beating yourself up. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, I'm joined by my new friend Pam Isom, President and CEO of ICE Safety Solutions, a company that has been supporting Corporations and Government entities since 1999 with the mitigation and prevention of employees and contractors from getting injured, ill, or potentially losing their life. The stakes have always been high for Pam, who has had to navigate asserting her industry expertise in a male-dominated field. And she's succeeded because of her unmatched ability to customize any potential safety concern into simulation-based training to ensure long-term retention of skills, and most importantly, people's capacity to save lives. However, today Pam and I talk woman-to-woman, sister-to-sister, about the guilt that inevitably creeps in when you are running a business and raising kids at the same time. Pam had her first baby while she was starting her business 25 years ago. Like in her home, in mine, my kids only know me as a mom-entrepreneur as well. And while it may sound sexy, it poses certain challenges: hard to disconnect from work/clients, limited family time even though you're sort of “there” all the time, the constant disappointment of your loved ones, assumptions about where you have your priorities, etc. Some of these apply to working women in general, but having worked in both the corporate sector and as an entrepreneur – well, let's just say the hustle is different. As a small business owner, you're solely responsible for securing the revenue that will deliver financial stability and socioeconomic mobility for the family. I ask Pam, whose daughters are now in their early 20s and pursuing successful careers if my kids (16 and 13) will be OK, even though I often feel I'm failing them by not being fully accessible every time they need me. She responds reassuringly – “YES, THEY WILL BE OK!”  She offers up the following gems that help me rid myself of my guilt: The children of mom entrepreneurs are exposed to experiences they otherwise wouldn't have like listening in on business negotiations, helping consolidate invoices, and attending networking events. This helps them handle rejection, learn how to persevere and compromise, and adjust to unexpected circumstances (and people) more swiftly. They understand that “NO”, stands for New Opportunity. It's not the end of the world if things don't work out as planned. On the contrary, they know it may lead to a better opportunity and the result is resilient, nimble, and creative people. They learn to deal with disappointment, and that it's OK to disappoint someone every day because no one is perfect. This wards off a sense of entitlement, affording everyone in the household a chance to “come short” of meeting the expectations of others without judgment.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: A marketer's curse or blessing?  In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY my friend Juliana No, President of Stand Out Consulting, joins me to talk about recent developments in tech and how they impact communication, marketing, and engagement. A few weeks ago, I read one of Juliana's posts where she was strongly voicing her concerns (a justified rant) about how businesses were being taken advantage of because AI like ChatGPT are being pitched to them like magic potions. Juliana and I go back and forth discussing a series of new shifts in the digital space – from Instagram now charging to get a verified account, to 3D the  immersive spaces aka metaverse – and this is where we landed after our zestful conversation: We need to embrace new technologies as TOOLS to enhance how we communicate, engage, and do business. AI can't replicate the unique lived experiences of PEOPLE and how they are organically embedded in the production of amazing content created by humans. Nothing replaces years of marketing EXPERIENCE – AI is just as good as the creativity and expertise of the people using it. The latest trends are not a magic potion – we should learn about them and see if they serve us with the intention of DIVERSIFYING the ways we communicate our brand's value. People are craving in-person experiences, but it better be WORTH THEIR TIME because after the pandemic, we're now evaluating the investment of time it takes to get to and from LIVE events.

Data drives business decisions, right? And investments, right? OK, then listen up. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY the conversation is all about fact-based data that provides REAL economic information about who Latinos are in the U.S. Ana Valdez, President and CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative (LDC), is a wonderful guest because she doesn't hold back. LDC is a national nonprofit organization whose mission is to elevate the national discourse on the role and contributions of Latinos to American society supported by data. It all started over 10 years ago when a group of Latino leaders decided to bring together their resources and invest in conducting independent deep-dive research regarding the growing Hispanic population in the U.S. “This group was founded by Sol Trujillo and Henry Cisneros. They said, you know what, we need to present data that really shows who Latinos are in this country because we know instinctively that Latinos are incredible, but we really don't have the means to show that. The country is really better because of us, and our economic impact is tremendous, but we don't have the numbers,” Ana shares. Since then, LDC has developed more than 25 original reports and research pieces that highlight the economic impact of Latinos across all industries and levels. They have secured partnerships of the caliber of Stanford, UCLA, Columbia University, and Accenture, to name a few, to conduct evidence-based research that informs new ways to stimulate the economy, influence how major corporations engage with Latinos, and ultimately provide the data that confirms that investing in Hispanic employees, talent, stories, suppliers, and communities will absolutely 1000% pay off from a business standpoint. One of LDC's many jewels is the Latino GDP Report, updated in 2022, which reflects that if U.S. Hispanics were a standalone country TODAY, we would be the 5th largest GDP in the world right after the United States, China, Japan and Germany, to a tune of 2.8 trillion dollars. Ana explains, “The first report came out in 2017, and we were back then the 8th largest economy in the world. These numbers show that we are incredibly hard-working that we are reliable and we're incredibly loyal. We just want to create a better life for families. What is more of an American dream? And that's what we want to show people. We are not the enemy. We are not invading anything we've been in this country even before this country was a country.” Bottom line, LDC is providing free access to data about Latinos in the U.S. with a business lens and to counter racial profiling. “We chose to not go with the social justice argument, because although we believe that it's a great argument, sometimes people are really scared. We believe that the reason why the LDC has been able to get to the places we have been is that we actually come to them with a business premise of growth. So, for us, it's about telling you where you can get growth and where you actually have a blind spot. Who doesn't want to know a blind spot in terms of getting more money?,” Ana quips. #ihavesomethingtosay #urbander #urbandermindset #udou #podcast #videocast #vodcast #multiculturalintelligence #equitypractitioners #Unity #Collaboration #Vision #Intentionality #Resiliency #Leadership #Purpose #Empowerment #Tenacity #Grit #Determination #ChangeAgent #Humanity #Storytelling #TheShiftIsHere #Metaverse #InvestInTrust #RestoreTrust #BuildLegacy #HonorCulture #Visibility #Talent #LatinoDonorCollaborative #LDC #LatinoGDP #LatinoData #LatinoImpact

By day he's a Computer Science and Engineering Professor. The rest of the time, my good friend Dimas Sánchez is a Master Percussionist and a steward of music that's been passed on from generation to generation by descendants of the African diaspora.  In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, we talk about the upcoming release of a book he co-authored entitled “Ritmos Afro Puertorriqueños” through which he and Jesús Cepeda, of the family that is world-renowned for preserving the tradition of Bomba music in Puerto Rico, document the history of this music genre and provide written music for people to learn how to play the rhythms of Bomba. The importance of this book is astronomical. It anchors our ancestral music into modern times because Dimas shares how when he traveled to Africa, he became aware that some of the rhythms being played there today are being played in Puerto Rico as well, unaltered, despite the violent efforts to strip the identity of enslaved people brought to the Americas through the transatlantic slave trade. As a skilled “primo” drum player (the principal drum in a Bomba ensemble), Dimas mentions that during his travels he also recognized the tradition of “marking” the movements of dancers when they engaged with the “primo” drum during the Puerto Rican Bomba, in various African regions. The book also documents Bomba music in written form for people of all backgrounds to have access to the infectious sounds of the drum and moving lyrics so it never ceases to exist (within the book there are QR codes that lead to pre-recorded demonstrations of how to play the drums – EPIC idea!). Dimas highlights that the Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba was about to die a few decades ago, but there was a resurgence because families like the Cepedas – with whom he studied Bomba – were determined to not let that happen. In more recent times, Bomba has become a symbol of resistance and protest to injustice and corruption, and it's expanded its reach to the U.S. mainland, especially in states with a large Puerto Rican presence like Florida, New York, Texas, and Illinois, to name a few. And what's super cool about the book is that it showcases how the African diaspora in the Americas is united by the same DNA that runs through our veins, the indigenous music that carries on against all odds, and the one heart we share that beats at the rhythm of powerful drums. Dimas describes how Puerto Rico, Haiti, Cuba, Colombia, Brazil, New Orleans, and many other Afro-descendant communities have a shared history, music, and future. “Ritmos Afro Puertorriqueños” will be presented along with a musical demonstration at CASA CULTURE (3201 E Colonial Drive Orlando, FL) on March 3rd during Alianza's 1st Friday of the Month event starting at 6PM. This is a free event.  Here's a demonstration of one of the Bomba rhythms by Dimas Sánchez: https://youtu.be/3oYW0H_iCas Here is a class conducted by Barbara Liz Ortiz Cepeda Founder of la Escuela de Bomba y Plena Tata Cepeda: https://youtu.be/m-WXLRKqKIU #ihavesomethingtosay #urbander #urbandermindset #udou #podcast #videocast #vodcast #multiculturalintelligence #equitypractitioners #Unity #Collaboration #Vision #Intentionality #Resiliency #Leadership #Purpose #Empowerment #Tenacity #Grit #Determination #ChangeAgent #Humanity #Storytelling #TheShiftIsHere #Metaverse #InvestInTrust #RestoreTrust #BuildLegacy #HonorCulture #Visibility #Talent #BombaMusic #AfroPuertoRicanRhythms #DimasSanchez #AfricanDiaspora

This woman is on a mission to close the gender and diversity gap in leadership. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, Lizette Ibarra, CEO and Founder of Latina Chief, shares with me how she became a talent acquisition expert and led one of the fastest-growing boutique executive search firms with operations in Mexico and the U.S. Hispanic Markets. Let's just say she's the queen of all head-hunters, assisting companies as they build diverse bold leadership teams while helping people who have reached a plateau in their careers (that damn glass ceiling!) secure positions where they can implement all the expertise Corporate America has been missing out on. With roughly 8% of female representation in executive teams in Latin America and Hispanics occupying less than 5% of executive positions in Corporate America here in the U.S., it's evident that the largest minority in our nation is grossly and woefully underrepresented (FYI: Hispanics are 20% of the U.S. population). At the current rate of “progress”, it will take 29 years for the average company in the U.S. and 238 years for firms in Latin America to reach gender parity on their executive teams. Ah! But Latina Chief has other plans. Lizette's clients often marvel at the quality of the candidates she identifies, puts forth for consideration, and successfully places in C-Suite positions. However, she is not surprised at the large pool of Hispanic and diverse talent that is currently untapped across all industries…because they are just that: UNTAPPED. When asked where she finds so many amazing multifaceted professionals, she quickly assures that it's not that difficult if you know where to look

YOU ARE NOT CRAZY. NO estás LOCA. All too often Latina professionals navigate their workplaces wondering whether this “feeling” of being overlooked, overworked, underpaid, underestimated, harassed, dismissed, excluded, humiliated, pigeon-holed, tokenized, etc., is a figment of our imagination. It's NOT. In this episode of I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY I talk with Sandra Noemi Torres and Ilhiana Rojas Saldana, Co-Founders of UnitedLatinas, established to empower Latinas through collaboration, speaking opportunities, entrepreneurship, and leadership development. I thank God every day that these two women found each other. They share their lived experiences in the Corporate world and how, even in the midst of having to deal with their own challenges in the workplace, they helped other Latinas throughout their individual career journeys, before they became entrepreneurs. Then their spheres of influence touched each other despite living in two different regions of the U.S., thanks to the power of LinkedIn. Realizing there was a huge void in capacity building and leadership development designed specifically for Latinas, they decided to formally create the UnitedLatinas platform after years of creating and implementing culturally relevant programming that attracted Hispanic women across all industries. As a result of listening to the feedback of many Hispanic women experiencing this sense of “inadequacy” and “discomfort” in the workplace, they were able to confirm their observations regarding the most pressing areas that needed attention, which in turn informed the development of a curated leadership accelerator for Latinas entitled “Lead Extraordinary”. The program focuses on three key pillars where leadership development for Latinas is lacking and it shows us how to a) Build Community (Chica! You're not alone!), b) Build Visibility (Nena! You've got a lot to share!), and c) Build Leadership Skills (Hermana! You DO have the ability lead!). From understanding our value and learning self-advocacy to finding our voices and exercising new skills like public speaking, UnitedLatinas delivers a safe space to grow because we've all been there – we can all relate to experiences that are unique to the Latina experience. “Lead Extraordinary” is a 6-week virtual program that will kick off in March 2023 – right in time for Women's History Month. Details here: https://sites.google.com/view/unitedlatinas-leadership/home?pli=1