JEFA Mode Live by Latinas in Tech

In this episode, we sit down with Lisette Martinez, VP of Sales and Marketing at Comcast, as she shares her inspiring journey from retail leadership to the executive suite—fueled by the influence of her father and a passion for people. Lisette opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome through preparation and the power of storytelling, and why authentic human connection is at the heart of great leadership. She reflects on a powerful moment when sharing her own story deeply resonated with a team member, reinforcing the value of vulnerability in the workplace. We also dive into how she navigates corporate resistance to change by prioritizing trust and empathy. Lisette champions mentorship, continuous growth, and the importance of representation—especially when it comes to empowering Latinas in tech. -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

This season, we're doing things differently. Our incredible chapter leaders are stepping up as podcast hosts to bring you real stories, real challenges, and real wins from Latinas in Tech. Our first episode: Juana Estrada & Tina Contreras Searcy from San Diego dive into why our community is more important than ever and how we can navigate DEI changes together.

In this insightful episode, Rocio van Nierop and Patricia Mota open up about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, now more than ever. Patricia, a true Jefa and the CEO of HACE, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing Latina success, focuses on cultivating a community of talent and providing the inside access and support needed t o thrive in their careers.Patricia has been attentive to the unique opportunities she has had access to due to her background, and how comunidad (community) helped her level the playing field. She strives to do the same for others. Her journey of "goodness" began in undergrad, where she founded non-profits and worked with business communities and her peers at Indiana University. One of her first projects, Mujeres of HACE, has grown from 40 initial members to over 400 women who have graduated from the program.Patricia and Rocio discuss how DEI is not only the path forward for a better, more inclusive, and empowered workforce, but also a core principle that must be embedded in the way companies operate. This is essential to ensuring that the impact made can be sustained for many underrepresented communities, especially Latinas.Connect with Patricia over LinkedinHACE website: https://haceonline.org/ -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

In this inspiring episode of Jefa Mode Live, host Rocio Van Nierop sits down with Kaisa Molina, a dynamic Latina who has charted her own path in the tech industry. Kaisa, a first-generation immigrant, shares her incredible journey from being an office manager to becoming the founder and COO of Stretch Dollar, a groundbreaking platform that enables small businesses to offer health benefits to their employees in an affordable and simple way.Kaisa Molina is the founder and COO of Stretch Dollar, a platform dedicated to helping small businesses provide health benefits to their employees. Born and raised in San Francisco, Kaisa's mother is from Nicaragua and her father from El Salvador. She has a rich background in marketing and extensive experience in the tech industry.Kaisa started her career as an office manager at Gusto, a company specializing in payroll management. She gained expertise in health insurance while working for another company focusing on this area, becoming an expert in small business and health insurance.Recognizing a need for affordable health benefits for small businesses, Kaisa founded Stretch Dollar. Her platform offers a straightforward mechanism for small businesses to support their employees' health needs.Her story emphasizes the importance of hard work, self-belief, and leveraging one's unique experiences to create impactful solutions. Kaisa's journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication. Her experiences as a first-generation immigrant and tech employee have shaped her approach to business and leadership.Join us as Kaisa Molina shares her remarkable story and offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Learn how she identified a gap in the market, took bold steps to fill it, and is now changing the world with her innovative solutions. Don't miss this episode packed with inspiration and actionable tips. Listen to Jefa Mode Live now and get motivated by Kaisa's journey from a tech employee to a founder and COO. -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

On this week's episode of the Jefa Mode Live podcast we revisit the Latinas in Tech Summit for an empowering live podcast session titled "Jefas en Tecnología: Empowering Latinas in Tech." Moderated by our Senior Programs Manager, Cecilia Fisher-Benitez, this insightful discussion features inspiring stories from chapter leaders across New York, Denver, Chicago, and Los Angeles, and can amplify your influence within the community. Listen in as Tatiana Carret shares her incredible journey from physical therapy to digital health, Aimara Rodriguez talks about her transition from supporting startups to becoming an entrepreneur, Patricia Flores from Chicago reflects on her move from healthcare to tech, and Lourdes Murillo recounts her 12-year journey in video infrastructure and digital assets. Their stories underscore the importance of resilience, leadership, and personal empowerment in navigating the complexities of the tech industry. We address the real challenges faced by Latinas in tech, offering strategies to overcome setbacks and imposter syndrome. Learn how to recognize your own achievements, view failures as growth opportunities, and understand the necessity for Latina representation in leadership roles.-Join the Latinas in Tech Summit 2025 Waiting List: https://latinasintechsummit.org/waiting-list-2025/We have 25 chapters across the globe, find one near you: https://latinasintech.org/chapterLatinas in Tech Mentorship Program:  https://latinasintech.org/career-growthBecome a LiT Mentor: https://latinasintech.dreami.io/main/mentor -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

On this week's episode of the Jefa Mode Live podcast, we unlock the secrets to impactful board membership and corporate leadership as we chat with Yai Vargas, the Vice President of Strategic Engagements at HACR (The Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility). In our discussion, Yai offers invaluable insights into the significance of Latinas occupying leadership roles, especially on boards of directors. She underscores the transformative power of mentorship and continuous learning, encouraging listeners to align their professional experiences with board opportunities. This episode serves as a practical guide for Latinas aiming to make impactful contributions through board membership. Learn how strategic moves, like negotiating relocation contracts to include nonprofit board placements, can amplify your influence within the community.Connect with Yai Vargas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaivargas/Connect with the Latinista: http://www.thelatinista.com -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

In Episode 12 of the Jefa Mode Live podcast, Rocio interviews Jessica Mercedes, a passionate entrepreneur from the Dominican Republic with a keen interest in technology. Jessica shares her journey from being one of the first in her middle-class neighborhood to own a computer, to crossing paths with Rocio while working at a PR agency, and eventually joining Latinas in Tech (LiT). Her husband encouraged her to apply to LiT, noting her identity as a Latina and startup founder. Jessica emphasizes that being a Latina in tech isn't limited to developers, as both she and Rocio are successful marketers. They recount their journey from working together as marketers to becoming Miami chapter leaders and winning the LiT startup competition, which propelled Jessica's career. Despite facing multiple rejections in funding rounds, Jessica's persistence paid off, raising $1.2 million and achieving a significant exit with Datadog's acquisition of her company. Now, she is focused on building AskMay, inspired by her desire to create a legacy for her children and demonstrate the power of Latina moms as entrepreneurs. This episode is a testament to resilience, the importance of community support, and the diverse roles Latinas play in the tech industry.Connect with Jessica Mercedes on Linkedin or at AskMay. -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

In this Latinas in Tech Jefa Mode Live podcast episode, listeners are treated to an insightful fireside chat between our LiT Chicago Chapter and  Samara Mejia Hernandez, the Founding Partner of Chingona Ventures. Samara's journey from a multicultural, low-income upbringing to engineering, and eventually venture capital, is a testament to resilience and determination. Through internships and experiences at prestigious institutions like Goldman Sachs, she cultivated a unique perspective on diversity and inclusion in the tech world. With Chingona Ventures, Samara is disrupting the status quo by providing funding and opportunities to underrepresented communities in the startup ecosystem. Despite facing stereotypes and challenges, she remains steadfast in her commitment to authenticity and bringing a fresh perspective to the industry. This episode explores her journey, highlighting the power of resilience, authenticity, and a drive to create positive change.Connect with Samara on LinkedIn.Learn more about Chingona Ventures by visiting their website: https://www.chingona.venturesSubscribe to the Latinas in Tech Entreprenuership Newsletter. Sign Up Here.  -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

In the latest Jefa Mode Live episode on the Latinas in Tech Podcast, Rocio Van Nierop, co-founder and CEO, sits down with Dia Bondi for a powerful discussion on navigating fear of rejection in the tech industry. Dia shares invaluable insights on making audacious asks and understanding the limitations that may arise. She emphasizes the importance of approaching requests with joy and curiosity, highlighting the unpredictable nature of human behavior. Throughout the episode, Dia challenges the notion that asking is a reflection of one's worthiness, urging listeners to recognize rejection as merely a response to what matters to others. Practical tools are provided, such as conducting research and setting personal boundaries, to empower listeners to advocate for themselves effectively. Ultimately, the episode serves as a beacon of empowerment for Latinas in tech, reminding them that their sense of worth and worthiness is non-negotiable.Connect with Dia Bondi on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and her website. Buy her book "Ask Like an Auctioneer: How to Ask For More and Get It" on Amazon. Get your ticket to Latinas in Tech Summit to hear Dia Bondi speak in person. Save 20% on your summit ticket using code: FLASHSALECode valid only on April 24 & April 25, 2024. -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

In this episode, we explore Maria Medrano's inspiring journey to becoming VP, Global Head of Community, Diversity, and Belonging, alongside her entrepreneurial venture as Co-Founder of Inspirame. Alongside Rocio Van Nierop, whose experiences as a bilingual caretaker in the Bay Area offer rich context, they delve into the significance of bilingualism, diversity, and technology in shaping inclusive communities. This conversation unveils Maria's insights on climbing the corporate ladder, fostering diversity, and her passion project, Inspirame, highlighting the pivotal role of language and culture in personal and professional realms. It's a compelling look at the challenges and successes on the path to leadership and innovation in diversity and inclusion.Connect with Maria Medrano on LinkedIn.Get access to the TecoGuide by Inspirame. -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

In this enlightening episode of Latinas in Tech, CEO and Co-Founder Rocio van Nierop engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Ileana Musa, the ultimate Wall Street Jefa, focusing on the crucial yet often overlooked topic of financial empowerment among Latinas. Throughout the discussion, Ileana shares her personal journey as a single mother of three and underscores the importance of consistency and education in achieving success (lessons learned from her parents). They address common misconceptions faced by Latinas regarding finances, emphasizing the need for education and strategic planning. Through a partnership with SUMA Wealth and Latinas in Tech, Ileana is committed to empowering others, highlighting the immense economic potential within the Latina community. By uniting and leveraging collective wealth, Latinas can drive meaningful change and support one another on the path to financial independence. The episode concludes with a call to action, inviting listeners to join upcoming sessions of “The Millonaria Mindset” workshops to deepen their understanding of personal finance and investment strategies. Through this dialogue, listeners are inspired to embrace their financial potential and take proactive steps towards building a secure future.Connect with Ileana Musa on LinkedIn. Register to "The Millonaria Mindset" Program, a money course for Jefas in Tech: https://latinasintech.org/workshop/the-millonaria-mindsetSponsored by Morgan Stanley. In partnership with SUMA Wealth.Deadline to register Monday, March 25, 2024  -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

Aurora Archer, a powerhouse Latina and  CEO & Co-Founder of The Opt-In™, shares her journey and insights on leadership, cultural pride, and the importance of representation in the tech industry.  Aurora's journey as a trailblazer in the tech industry is highlighted, where she recounts her remarkable achievements as the first Afro Latina, first Latina, and first woman in various domains. Reflecting on her upbringing, Aurora shares how being raised by an indigenous Mexican mother and an African American father exposed her to a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and beliefs, laying the groundwork for her exceptional skills as a marketer. She draws inspiration from her mother's resilience in the face of criticism for speaking Spanish to her children, and her grandmother's teachings instilled a sense of pride in her ancestry while providing her with the tools to navigate the world as a black woman. Moreover, Aurora emphasizes the importance of breaking generational cycles of debt and advocating for economic empowerment for all individuals, regardless of their background. She introduces the concept of "Jefa," embodying healing, redefining leadership through love and empathy, and embracing wealth as a means of economic empowerment for everyone. As the conversation unfolds, Aurora Archer's narrative serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring leaders, particularly Latinas in tech, encouraging them to embrace diversity, break barriers, and pave the way for a more inclusive future in the tech industry.Connect with Aurora on LinkedIn.Learn more about her company and podcast, The Opt-In™. -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

In this captivating episode of Jefa Mode Live, Rocio, CEO, and Co-Founder of Latinas in Tech, sits down with Maria Morales, CEO of gaming company 623 Studios, for an enlightening conversation on breaking barriers and embracing diversity in the tech world. Maria shares her inspiring journey of resilience, emphasizing the importance of never accepting "no" for an answer. Together, they delve into the nuanced experiences of being Latina and Afro-Latina, navigating issues like fitting in and confronting colorism in their home countries. As the CEO of a gaming company, Maria offers insights into her dream job, one centered on promoting inclusion and diversity. Join them as they explore the transformative power of embracing diversity and creating inclusive spaces in tech, where every voice is valued and empowered.Connect with Maria on LinkedIn. Learn more about 626 Studios - http://www.623studios.io -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

In this captivating episode of  "Jefa Mode LIVE" Podcast, we take a deep dive into Latinas in Tech 2023 Summit and the remarkable journey of Dr. Ellen Ochoa, a true trailblazer in the world of science and space exploration. Dr. Ochoa, a veteran astronaut and the 11th Director of the Johnson Space Center, made history as JSC's first Hispanic director and the second female director. The episode delves into her groundbreaking achievement as the first Hispanic woman in space during her nine-day mission aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1993. The fireside chat with Ellen explores her educational experiences, shedding light on the profound impact of professors who both discouraged and empowered her. Ellen also shares poignant stories of her invitation to join a research group at Stanford, highlighting the need for more opportunities for bright minds, regardless of gender. Dr. Ochoa's dedication to diversity at NASA is evident, as she discusses her leadership role in ERG initiatives and the Innovation and Inclusion Council. She offers valuable perspectives on "imposter syndrome", concluding that if you are daring greatly, the “imposter syndrome” is a must. And as if exploring the cosmos wasn't exciting enough, stay tuned till the end to discover how Dr. Ochoa teaches us the secret to making s'mores that are out of this world - because in space, even marshmallows have to defy gravity to be delicious! This episode is a testament to Dr. Ellen Ochoa's inspiring journey and her commitment to breaking barriers in the world of space exploration and beyond. Follow Ellen Ochoa on X (Twitter) and Instagram.Books:Dr. Ochoa's Stellar World: We Are All Scientists / Todos somos científicosThe Solar System with - El Sistema Solar con EllenLearn more about the 2024 Latinas in Tech Summit at latinasintechsummit.org.  -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

In this engaging episode of "Cafecito with Beatriz Acevedo," Rocio van Nierop sits down with the remarkable Beatriz Acevedo, a true Jefa who embarked on a transformative journey from her hometown in Tijuana to San Diego in her 20s, all in pursuit of education. Beatriz, a three-time Emmy award winner and recipient of an MTV award, shares her inspiring story of motivation over frustration when she noticed that Latino representation was seemingly stuck at 1%. Beatriz is passionate about helping Latinos harness their economic power. She humorously quips, "401 que?" and discusses the dearth of fintech options tailored to the Latino community due to a lack of trust. She shares anecdotes of her father's cash-stuffed jackets, a result of past experiences with unreliable banks and governments.Beatriz's current venture, SUMA Wealth, is dedicated to empowering our community to build wealth. With unwavering determination, she embarked on a mission to shatter that glass ceiling and empower the next generation.Connect with Claudia on Linkedin and Instagram.Website: https://sumawealth.com/Latinas in Tech Blog: Latina-Led Fintech Companies, SUMA & Reel, Merge To Help Close The Wage Gap -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

Claudia Romo Edelman takes us on a journey through her life, sharing stories from her upbringing in Mexico that have profoundly shaped her life's mission. Her dedication to helping others and her unwavering belief in the beauty of Latin people and culture have led her to become a driving force for positive change worldwide.Claudia is a Mexican-Swiss diplomat with more than 25 years of experience leading marketing and advocacy for global organizations including the World Economic Forum, UNICEF, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and the United Nations. She is a global mobilization expert, catalyst for social change and marketer for social causes as well as a recognized speaker, media contributor and an inspiring activist. Connect with Claudia on LinkedIn, X , Instagram, and Facebook.Subscribe to A La Latina Podcast on YouTube.Website: https://www.weareallhuman.org/ -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

Tune into this empowering episode of "JEFA Mode Live" where host Rocio von Nierop welcomes Soledad Antelada, a trailblazer in the field of cybersecurity. Soledad shares her journey of overcoming societal stereotypes, starting with her childhood passion for computers and video games, which was deemed inappropriate as it was seen as a space reserved for her brothers. She reflects on the realization in her 30s that she was breaking barriers and paving the way for other women in tech. Soledad also dives into how her fascination with ethical hacking began and offers practical advice for those aspiring to enter this dynamic industry. She discusses founding "Girls Can Hack," her transition from Berkeley Lawrence Labs to Google, and enduring microaggressions, including an instance with a professor who underestimated her abilities. As the author of “Dissecting Critical Infrastructure Attacks: Cybersecurity lessons from real-world breaches,” Soledad offers unique insights into cybersecurity challenges. The episode concludes with her definition of what it means to be a 'Jefa' in tech. Don't miss this inspiring story of resilience and leadership.Connect with Soledad Antelada:Girls Can Hack website: https://www.girlscanhack.com/"Dissecting Critical Infrastructure Attacks: Cybersecurity lessons from real-world breaches"Pre-Order Book on Amazon  -About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "JEFA Mode Live" with host Rocio von Nierop, CEO and Co-Founder of Latinas in Tech. In this launch episode, Rocio interviews Elena Gomez, the accomplished CFO of Toast. An influential Latina in the tech industry, Elena paints a vivid picture of her upbringing in a Spanish-speaking household, her rise through the corporate ranks, and the invaluable life lessons she learned along the way. Tune in to discover how her grandfather ignited her passion for finance and how Elena imparts her strong work ethic to her daughters.Elena's wisdom doesn't stop with her personal narrative. She takes us through her career journey in the tech industry, illustrating the significance of intellectual curiosity, stepping out of comfort zones, and the impact of a mentor who genuinely believes in your potential. Imagine battling imposter syndrome yet choosing to trust in your past achievements. We learn from Elena that finance is a pivotal part of tech companies, debunking the misconception that these companies only require technical roles.Find Elena on Linkedin and Twitter.-About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at https://latinasintech.org/.

Welcome to Jefa Mode Live, a Latinas in Tech podcast that celebrates the extraordinary voices of Latinas in the Tech industry, where resilience meets innovation and growth. Hosted by Rocio Van Nierop, CEO and Co-Founder of Latinas in Tech, this show will dive deep into the core of tech and entrepreneurship, exploring the remarkable stories of JEFAS who have shattered ceilings, defied expectations, and created their own paths.JEFA Mode is not just a word, it's a mindset, a symbol of strength and leadership. Built by Latinas for Latina. Each episode, we will bring you candid conversations with trailblazers, innovators, and leaders in the tech industry. Sharing their insights, challenges, and triumphs.We're here to inspire, empower, and elevate Latinas in tech, and all those who aspire to make a difference.  Whether you're a tech enthusiast, an aspiring jefa, or someone looking for inspiration, join us on this journey as we uncover the powerful stories and experiences of Latinas in the tech world.Together, we will bridge the gap, break the barriers, and celebrate the incredible women who are changing the face of tech.-About Latinas in Tech Latinas in Tech is a non-profit organization with the mission to connect, support and empower Latina women working in technology through professional development, mentorship, and recruiting. Learn more about our organization at www.latinasintech.org.