Persistence in Adversity with Dr. Adame

In this episode Benjamin Valdez shares about his early years and his experiences. He shares life experiences as well as his biggest adversity and what helped him overcome his obstacles. Mr. Valdez has had many hats throughout his life, in this conversation with him he provides life advice and also discusses how it was growing up without his father.

Easton Gomez is a home-schooled 7-year-old who became an author at a very young age. Easton is from the Rio Grande Valley and he has published 2 books. He wanted to follow his father's footsteps by writing a book about using your money wisely. You can find his books at Amazon, Barnes and Noble and other places. Easton Learns to Save is his first book, and Easton Learns to Budget is his latest book.

In this episode Cristina Solis Wilson shares a bit of her background story, her successes and struggles. She also discusses life stories as a mom, veteran, entrepreneur, and author. In addition, Mrs. Wilson provides life advice and a bit of her adversities and what helped her overcome them. Cristina, Cris as her friends call her, stands as a distinguished Combat Veteran, bringing over 25 years of exemplary service in the U.S. Army Reserve to her multifaceted career. A decorated military professional, she has undertaken five deployments, earning accolades for her unwavering commitment to discipline and courage. Mrs. Wilson is armed with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from The University of Texas-Pan American. A strategic visionary, Cristina assumes the role of Chief Strategy Officer at Entrepreneur Power Network. Cristina is not only a military leader but also a dedicated entrepreneur, serving as the CEO of CM Institute of Leadership LLC. Additionally, she co-founded Crossroads Academy, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to cultivating leadership skills in economically disadvantaged youth. Her commitment to leadership education extends to her role as the Chair for the Hispanic Women's Network of Texas-RGV Chapter (HWNT-RGV). In 2023, she was named “Chapter of the Year” by the Hispanic Women's Network of Texas for her outstanding leadership and local impact. In 2017, she co-founded AMVETS Post 107, aimed at supporting veterans and improving their quality of life, along with their families and communities, through leadership, advocacy, and services. In recognition of her outstanding influence and leadership, Cristina Solis Wilson was named the 2024 Latina of Influence by Hispanic Lifestyle Magazine and the 2023 Woman of Influence by SUCCESS Magazine, adding another prestigious accolade to her illustrious career. A devoted wife to her loving husband Michael Wilson and a nurturing mother to Michelle and Christian, Cristina is a true embodiment of family values, dedication, and service. In addition to her professional achievements, she finds fulfillment in giving back to her community through volunteering, mentoring, and active participation in various initiatives.

In this episode Heather Ayala Segovia shares about her early years and entrepreneurship journey. She also shares about her childhood dream of becoming an author, which is now a reality. Heather is the owner of St. Michaels Ambulance Service and an author.

Dr. Annabelle Palomo, a native of the Rio Grande Valley, boasts an impressive academic background, having obtained a bachelor's, master's, and doctorate in education from the University of Texas Pan American. With 17 years of experience in various educational roles, including teacher, principal, and executive director, she eventually pursued her passion by establishing a post-secondary institute to enhance educational opportunities for local students. In addition to founding Rio Grande Valley College (RGV College), where she serves as CEO, Dr. Palomo has made significant strides in the Nursing and Allied Health Fields. Starting with just five students in a Certified Nurse Aide program, she utilized her educational expertise to expand RGV College to offer nine programs, including vocational nursing, medical assistant, pharmacy technician, and others. In this episode Dr. Palomo shares about her early years growing up in the RGV, shares life advice, and how she was able to reach her goals. She also talks about being a woman of faith, and how God has blessed her, and provides life advice. At the end of the podcast Dr. Palomo shares a bit of advice in Spanish.

In this episode Dr. Nora De Hoyos Comstock, La Comadre, share her story of Las Comadres and a bit of her story. Dr. Nora is originally from the Rio Grande Valley and is the Founder of las Comadres para las Americas. This network of women was created with the purpose to support other women to excel in all areas of their life. Dr. Nora shares a bit of her personal story, her education, and also about how this network of extraordinary women began. She also talks about her struggles and what helped her succeed.

Marie Salazar Garcia is a passionate professional with a diverse range of expertise. She currently serves as the Business Development Representative for SAMES, Inc., where she specializes in the residential, land development, and economic development industries. Additionally, Marie holds the position of Sales Director with Mary Kay, where she finds fulfillment in inspiring beauty and enriching lives. In this episode Marie share about her early years and becoming a mom at only the age of 19. She also talks about her adversities and how she defines success. Marie provides advice to moms and to those that want to have a long-lasting impact in the community and shares about her 100-year plan. Also discusses her experience being a young mother of three and how she juggled work and mom duties.

In this episode Dr. Felipe Sustaita shares his story of how he went from being a migrant worker to having a seat at the table. Also shares about not having a bed until he went to Michigan State University, and how picking strawberries and other fruit made him the person who he is today. He wrote a book dedicated to his father who taught him the importance of keeping your word. Felipe also discusses how he came up with the idea of the book, how it was growing up, working 12-14 hours when he was just 11 years old. Also talks about growing up in Donna Texas, the RGV, and arriving to the university without being able to read or write, and now he has earned a doctorate degree.

In this episode Dr. ET shares her story of being an immigrant to this country and how she would travel every day to and from Mexico to come to school in the United States while in elementary. She discusses some of her struggles and how this has impacted her life. Dr. ET provides life advice and also shares how she fell through the cracks in high school and later earned a GED.

Dr. John “Push” Gaines, former at-risk youth, is the CEO and founder of PUSH for Dreams. He's a best-selling author and Emmy-Nominated Speaker. Dr. Gaines Holds a bachelor's degree from East Central University, where he was honored as The Outstanding Student in Business and Led the Football Team to Victory as Captain. He Also Has A master's degree in business leadership and a Doctorate in Business Administration. Dr. John Gaines shares his life story and how he overcame all of the adversities. Being a foster child, he faced many roadblocks however none of them turned him bitter. One day when he was seven years old, he wrote a goal of one day being a doctor and be a role model just like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and now he has reached that goal and is changing the world. Author of three books and a fourth one coming soon. Being a family man is his greatest accomplishment. Some of the life advice he shares are: trust God's timing, enjoy the present, focus on the positive, have a positive mindset, and you don't have to do life alone. He also shares that his faith and relationship with God is the most important thing in his life.

 Her first job, as a high school dropout, was at fifteen, working for the Kirby Vacuum Company. She later got her GED and completed her bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies with a minor in Special Education where she found a deep passion for teaching students with exceptionalities.  She later completed her doctoral coursework in business and leadership.She is best known for her creativity and her willingness to help others. 

Veronica ‘Ronnie' Ontiveros is an entrepreneur and community leader in the Rio Grande Valley. She is the owner & broker of NextHome RGV Realty, which has been recognized with the Pinnacle Award as one of nation's top 23% out of +500 franchise offices. Ronnie is the CEO and President of Med-Care EMS; one of the largest 911 emergency medical companies in South Texas and the sole owner and president of Lifeguard Aero-Med. Born and raised in Kingsville, TX, Ronnie grew up in a business-minded home where she gained a deep understanding of the skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur. Her parents Juan, a migrant worker, and Nora Flores instilled a hard work ethic in Ronnie by getting her involved in their rental property business with small duties like cutting the yard and painting walls. In this episode Ronnie shares about the different hats she wears as a business owner, a mother, and a community leader.

Dr. Yvette Martínez-Vu is a Chicana mother-scholar who works as an academic coach and consultant. She has a Ph.D. in Theater and Performance Studies from UCLA. She is the producer and host of the Grad School Femtoring podcast and founder of Grad School Femtoring, LLC where she empowers first-generation students of color as they navigate higher education. Dr. Martinez-Vu is the co-author of the forthcoming The Grad School Femtoring Guide: Successfully Navigating Graduate School Applications with the University of California Press. In this episode she share about her early years, her adversities and what helped her persist as well as some life advice.

J.R. Gonzales is a native from Mercedes Texas and has become accomplished business owner, entrepreneur, political strategist, and public speaker who has dedicated his career to advocating for issues affecting Latino and minority communities. With over 20 years of experience in leadership positions at the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC), he has established himself as a respected voice in the Hispanic business community. In addition, he serves on the Export-Import Bank of the United States Council on Small Business. Prior to his current positions, Gonzales served as Chairman of the Board and president of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. In this episode he shares a bit of his early years, childhood memories visiting his grandmother, and why he is a Latino advocate. He talks about how the "Bewitched" show influenced his college major in Adverising and Communications. JR shares his biggest adversity was having to work while in college. One of those summer jobs was swimming with a pig. The moment that changed his life was when he realized that he had to look at situations through a positive lens. He believes that you're the total sum of your experiences, he describes himself as the fajita police, and talks a bit of why became a podcaster. He's visited the Great Wall of China 13 times, has met 5 US Presidents, 3 presidents from Mexico, other presidents, and shares what he would tell his 18-year-old self if he could.

Attorney Deborah Cordova shares about her childhood growing up in the Rio Grande Valley. She talks about the importance of education, changing majors in college, and why she chose law school. Deborah graduated from St. Mary's University with a bachelor's degree in business administration in accounting. She received her law degree from St. Mary's University School of Law in 2002. Deborah also graduated from the University of Texas Pan American with a Master of Business Administration in 2003. She is a founding member and partner at Walsh McGurk Cordova Nixon, PLLC. In this episode she also shares that she's most proud of being family oriented and everyone needs to get involved in the community and give back. Deborah is currently a member of many boards and organizations such as Teach for America and the Hispanic Women Network of Texas (HWNT). She recently received the Women Making History Award by HWNT, and was named La Jefa by RGV Vision. Deborah served on the Board of Directors for the State Bar of Texas (SBOT) from 2019-2022, is a Past Chair of the Women and the Law Council of the SBOT, and a Past President of the Texas Women Lawyers. She was recognized as a Texas Rising Star from 2007-2015. She had been awarded many other recognitions such as Woman of the Year in 2016 for her outstanding community service on behalf of the citizens of Mission and was a recipient of the Rio Grande Valley Walk of Fame by the City of Hidalgo in 2017.

Chicas in Class Podcast share their story on this episode. Zuleyca and Jainette met in Grad School, they talked about their adversities, how they juggle work, mom duties, the podcast and much more. They provide life advice and talk about some life challenges they have faced. Zuleyca's biggest adversity was having no one to pave the way for her. Jainette's biggest adversity was an abusive relationship. However, she shares that with God's help she was able to overcome and how that has shaped her life for the better. Both Zuleyca and Jainette have an MBA, and also have similar definitions of success. Success for them has evolved through the years and now strive to look at the positive in life, focus on the good, and showing up and being authentic.

En este episodio Nincy Erazo nativa de Guatemala comparte sobre su vida y de como llego a los estados unidos cuando solo tenia tres añitos. Comparte sobre un impactante accidente que sufrio ella y su familia. Tambien habla de como fue victima de abuso fisico y mental, hasta que un dia por medio de un sueño, decide salir de la relacion. Tambien comparte de como decidio escribir un libro. Hoy ha escrito varios libros, tiene un Podcast donde comparte que Dios la ayudo a perdonar y a ser una nueva persona apesar de que ella nunca habia ido a la iglesia.

Iliana Villalobos is a lawyer at the Villalobos Law Firm in McAllen, working alongside her parents, Attorneys Jesse and Margie Villalobos. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Iliana is a recent graduate of the University of Texas School of Law in Austin, and recently passed the Texas Bar Exam. In this episode Iliana shares about the time she was depressed and had low self-esteem. She shares her biggest adversity was being bulimic as a teenager. She talks about how she overcame and how we need to focus on being real and be an example for the younger people. Iliana is the Founder of RGV Book Club, Board Member of South Texas Literacy Coalition, Member of Organization of Women Executives, Member of RGV Hispanic Chamber, and other organizations!

Daniel Chavez, Electrical Engineer and native from Las Milpas shares about having to work since he was 10 years old. He grew up in a migrant home with many obstacles, but his biggest adversity was being poor. It was an electrical shock that triggered his interest in electricity and years later he turned it into a career. Mr. Chavez talks about his faith in God, and how He has blessed him in every aspect of his life. Some life advice he shares is to hang around with the right people, the best books out there are the people with knowledge, it's important to give back to the community, live a simple life, be an integral person, respect people, and help others. Everything he does is with one goal in mind, going to heaven when he dies. He's also a businessman and a community member that makes an impact in others every day. Some examples are,opening his company doors to the local PSJA school district for job shadowing, provide scholarships, share knowledge, and more!

In this episode Reene Bentacourt, judge, shares a bit of her story. She describes about growing up in the valley, her migrant family, and why she decided to study law. She relates about being a mom of three girls, adversities she had to overcome, and also provided life advice. Echale ganas mija is a motto she lives by, something her dad used to advice her since the begining, to keep going.

Kijuan Amey, shares his life experience from being a student and business owner, to falling into what he calls, depression setting and a very dark scary suicidal moment. He thanks God that He rescued him. Kijuan an Air Force Veteran and now an author, talks about a dramatic accident which left him with a broken back and blind. He provides life advice and says, you need to take action after your faith. Kijuan mentions, it does not matter how big the mountain is, be still and watch Him work. In addition, he states, I may have lost my eyesight, but I have not lost my vision.

Teresa Capistran, superintendent, shares about growing up in the valley. She has two masters and is an educator at heart. She serves in many boards such as United Way, RGV LEAD, RGV Focus and others. Mrs. Capistran shares about her struggles growing up and talks about some of her life experiences. Some advice she provided is to "never give up, adversities will always come, and ask for help when you need it." She talks about being involved with your children and not comparing them to others. Also touches on the social media and the technology risks and how this affects our children's social skills. Teresa talks about the plate only being so big, therefore we need to prioritize and discuss with family on major decisions and get their support in order to be able to juggle the diverse responsibilities, work and personal life.

In this episode Nincy Erazo shares about her mother bringing her and her sister to the United States from Guatemala when she was just 3 years old. She talks about the mental and physical abuse she suffered from her husband. Nincy discusses getting pregnant and then having a miscarriage and how the abuse continued. Until one day she got the courage to leave the abusive relationship. She also shares about how her daughter's father left the addictions, was restored, and is now part of her daughter's life. Nincy was invited to speak to a group on physical abuse and it was then, that she knew she just had to share her story and write a book. She is now an author and a podcaster who shares how Christ help her forgive and become a new person.

Another episode of the #REGARDLESS campaign. Gabriela Kolman is a graduate student currently studying literature. She's a Brazil native who migrated to the United States as a teenager after finding a way to tell her mom the abuse her siblings and her were going through. She shares a bit of her story and struggles and how she managed to make a better life for herself. Gabriela hopes to one day heal completely and hopes her story will help others get past the emotional and physical abuse; just like she has and continues to be better every day. This episode sponsor is Consulting Firm, LLC who offers leadership training and so much more both in English and Spanish. Find these services at www.esmeraldaadame.com

En este episodio Julio Dominguez, abogado, nos platica de donde viene, y lo dificil que fue para el decir que queria ejercer esta carrera. Julio tiene mas de 20 años practicando en Mexico y Estados Unidos, a dado clases de derrecho en diferentes universidades. Tambien habla sobre porque corre maratones, las carreras y obstaculos que a tenido en su vida. Nos platica lo que el exito y la persistencia significan pare el, y como el ha alcansado sus metas.

Colleen Biggs is an Award-Winning Peak Performance Coach with over 20 years of experience, she has launched over 340 businesses, is an International Speaker, Author to 5 #1 International Best-Seller's and the CEO and founder of L.E.A.P. In this episode she shares how she struggled in her early years as an entrepreneur and how life is not about likes and followers. She talks about the importance of forgiveness, respect, being grateful and having those that cheer you on in your circle. Colleen provides life advice, discusses struggles as a mom and mentions that if learning is beneath you then leading is beyond you. In addition, she talks about the importance of faith and God in her life as well as her definition of success.

Norma Pimentel, a Sister with the Missionaries of Jesus, has served as the Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley for over 12 years. She oversees the charitable arm of the Diocese of Brownsville, providing oversight of different ministries & services in the Rio Grande Valley through emergency assistance, homelessness prevention, disaster relief, clinical counseling, pregnancy care, food programs, and the Humanitarian Respite Center. In this podcast she shares with us about her early years growing up in Brownsville and Matamoros. She also talks about how she chose this path for her life and her parents' reaction to this matter. Sister Norma, talks about God being the center of her life and also encourages us to give back. In 2015 she received the Martin Luther King Jr. “Keep the Dream Alive” award from Catholic Charities USA and in 2020 TIME100 listed her as one of the most influential people in the world. She ends with life advice for the listeners.

Mr. Joe Quiroga has led Texas National Bank, a Hispanic-Owned community bank, since 2007 and since then it has grown from $64 million to $780 million in assets. Prior to joining the bank, he was Vice President at JPMorgan Chase. In this episode Mr. Quiroga, a native from Mexico, shares what success means to him, talks about his background and a bit of his career. In addition, he talks about how God has been good to him and has blessed him in all areas of his life, and how with his parents' support, he was able to attend college and change his family's economic status. Mr. Quiroga has a degree in Finance and was recently appointed as a board member for the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. He is the first Hispanic Banker appointed to the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. He also serves in boards and civic activities including: member of the Regional Bank Council for the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas-San Antonio Branch, the Community Depository Institutions Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas and was appointed as the committee's national representative in Washington D.C., current Treasurer and Board Member of the VAMOS Scholarship Fund and many others. Mr. Quiroga also shares about: having balance in life, how the pandemic affected him, his experience of becoming bank president at age 28, how he seeks God in prayer for guidance, about giving and investing in the community, about the importance of a handshake, and that we get out of life what we put it.

Juan Carlos Aguirre, native of Camargo Tamaulipas Mexico and a chemical engineer, shares with us his upbringing and some struggles. He also talks about his education, describes some of his successes, and provides life advice. He practiced engineering at Dow Chemical for 15 years and later joined South Texas College as a Training Specialist, served as a director and then promoted to Dean of Continuing Professional and Workforce Education. He also shares that he owes everything he has accomplished to God, describes what makes him happy, and talks about living a life of integrity and leaving a legacy.

En este episodio Norma Reyes De Ordorica, muy conocida como Norma Mandala, nos platica de su niñez y como llego a ser consultora. Ella habla como tuvo que proveer para sus hermanos cuando mueren sus padres, se casa de muy joven, y como llega a lo que hace el día de hoy. Ella es autora del libro Del Miedo al Amor y tiene 25 años como Consultora en Desarrollo Humano, Constelaciones Familiares, también es Instructora de Yoga, Meditación, y otras áreas. También comparte consejos para la audiencia y platica como ella define el éxito.

Edgar Hernandez a native of Alton Texas enjoyed playing sports with his friends as a child. After graduating High school, he joined the US Army where he served 7 and a half years. He shares about 9/11 and how in February 2003 his unit 507 Maintenance Company 5/52 Air Defense Artillery was deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom. On March 23, 2003, his unit was ambushed by Iraqi soldiers in Al Nasiriyah Iraq where many American soldiers were killed, wounded and captured. In this interview Edgar describes the day he was taken captive. He was one of seven soldiers captured by Iraqi soldiers and was held for 21 days as a Prisoner of War (POW). Upon returning from the Iraq war, he was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and POW Medal. After completing his military service, he became a police officer and has served at this capacity for 14 years. Edgar also talks about how God has helped him surpass this dramatic experience and how each day is a gift, and he enjoys and cherishes each day with his children.

Jaime and Cristina Farias are former school teachers, and a normal couple like many who struggled for a long time on how to control their spending and pay bills on time. After Jaime was laid off from his job, things got more difficult. After securing a new job, Jaime and Cristina were determined to take control of their finances, so The Money Funnel System was born. Jaime has a Degree from Texas A&M University, Cristina has a Masters Degree in English, and they have four small children all under the age of 8. In this episode they share a bit of their childhood, some struggles, and how they became authors. Jaime also shares his experience on an Ironman race. The Money Funnel System is meant to help control your spending and alleviate issues some people struggle with. Foreword was written by William D. Danko, co-author of "The Millionaire Next Door", a New York Times bestselling author!

Dr. Maria Harper-Marinick, a Dominican Republic native, holds a Master and Ph.D. degrees in education from ASU. She has been a teacher and a mentor to many, is a national leader in higher education and a strong advocate for access to opportunity, equity, and student success. In this episode she discusses her background, what drives her and provides life advice. Dr. Harper-Marinick served the Maricopa Community College District for almost 30 years in a variety of leadership roles, including as Chancellor for the system. She is a Senior Fellow for the College Excellence Program and The Aspen Institute. She is very committed to service in the community and has actively engaged in national and local boards including American Association of Community Colleges, Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, and many others. She currently serves on the Boards of Excelencia in Education, Creighton University, and numerous others. In addition, Dr. Harper-Marinick has been the recipient of various awards and recognitions, including: 2017 Valley Leadership Woman of the Year, and 2017 One of the Valley's Most Admired Leaders, to name a few. Dr. Harper-Marinick was featured in Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine as one “25 women who have made a difference in the world by tackling some of higher education's toughest challenges and exhibiting extraordinary leadership skills”. Dr. Maria Harper-Marinick shares about her life of service, the discrimination she has faced and how she defines success. She mentions, "life is about choices and smiles are free!" She also provides a bit in Spanish, "es una sola vida, no la desperdicies, y tenemos que empoderar a nuestros jovenes latinos a desarollarse!

#REGARDLESS Series Igdalia Covarrubias, grew up in a small agricultural town located in the San Joaquin Valley region of California and is now a PhD student at Ohio State University. In this episode, she shares her story of abuse and how she overcame adversity to pursue her dreams. From growing up in poverty to being awarded 11 scholarships in high school, including the prestigious Gates Millennium Scholarship and Dell Scholarship, Igdalia did not let her adversities stop her from "moving forward." Currently, she holds a Bachelor's degree in English, a Master's degree in Counseling, and very soon she will be Doctora Covarrubias. REGARDLESS of her adversities, Igdalia has used her painful circumstances to create a better future for herself. In this episode, she talks about how speaking up liberated her and helped her reach her full potential in life. She also provides advice about setting short-term goals and then reaching the long-term ones and says, "we must always live life to the fullest."

Alex Sarabia, Valedictorian of his Roma High School Class and a DELL Scholar, shares his story growing up in the Rio Grande Valley. He describes his childhood growing up in a border town and provides insight on the skills necessary to succeed. Alex has been a psychology professor for over 10 years and a licensed professional counselor (LPC) for over 8 years. He possesses two Bachelor's Degrees in Psychology and Sociology, and a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology. Alex shares on the importance of soft skills, provides life advice, and why he chose to stay in the valley to pursue his career. Alex Sarabia also serves as co-host of the YouTube show “RGV Stars,” where he has interviewed the top celebrities and community leaders of the Rio Grande Valley. Alex practiced individual, couples, group and family psychotherapy/counseling at Abundant Grace Counseling Center and at Renaissance Behavioral Hospital both in Edinburg, TX. Alex is a member of the American Psychological Association (APA), American Counseling Association (ACA), other associations, and has received numerous recognitions for his community involvement.

Dr. Robert Vela, President of San Antonio College and 2021 Aspen Institute Prize winner shares about his childhood growing up in Alice Texas and having his grandmother as a major influence in his life. Dr. Vela dives deep into his memories as a young boy, his adversities and struggles as he fails his first semester in college. He describes misconceptions and stereotypes of men and how that shaped the rest of his life. Dr. Vela encourages everyone to dream big, use the magic sauce to succeed, be genuine, and a role model to others. “My mission is to be an educator; you have something special in you, find a way to connect with someone that truly cares about you, and believe in yourself,” Dr. Vela. Dr. Vela possesses over 20 years in higher education administration, he currently serves as President of the National Community College Hispanic Council, an affiliate council of the American Association of Community Colleges, where he also serves on the Commission for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and has many other organizational involvements. He holds many honors such as the 2019 Malcolm Baldrige Award for Performance Excellence, and 2015 Distinguished Alumni from Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

Dr. Ali Esmaeili, Dean of Mathematics, Science, IT, Bachelor Degree Programs, and University Relations talks about his struggles growing up, his adversities and how he overcame them. He shares life advice and the characteristics of a visionary leader. Dr. Esmaeili with 30 years of higher education experience describes his passion for the students he serves and how he sees himself in them. Dr. Esmaeili has a Doctorate in Education, Master of Science, Master of Education and sits on the National Community College Baccalaureate Association (CCBA) Board. He was instrumental in the development, implementation, and evaluation of four unique bachelor's degree programs at South Texas College and has many other accomplishments. An evident one that students remember is his love for his profession and the positive footprint he has left in each and every one he has crossed paths with.

Growing up in Puerto Rico to parents who never attended college, Dr. San Miguel didn't have many role models. But her passion for science propelled her forward as she obtained a bachelor's degree in Biology, a master's degree in Biotechnology, and a doctorate in Higher Education Administration, all despite challenges, stereotypes, and skepticism. In this episode, she shares her story of perseverance as she pursued her career. Her purpose in life is helping Latina leaders to discover, develop, and maximize their potential to achieve their goals. She also describes the importance of mentoring and taking small steps towards success and how her faith in God has helped her in her journey. Dr. San Miguel believes that everything is possible if you trust, believe, and take action. She encourages everyone to break barriers and not to give up!

Rosalinda Serna, author, discusses her adversities, her mom life, her journey as an author and how she overcame the loss of a child. She has self-published 3 children's books: Glorious Wings, Four Eyed Freddy and His Amazing Glasses, and Momma Who Made. Rosalinda is a wife, mother of 3 children and also a blogger at Traditional Mom in a Modern-Day World. Also, she talks about her upbringing, marrying at a young age, the adversity of loosing her first child, provides her insight on loss and the book readings she gives at churches.

An Asherton Texas native, Dr. Martinez has dedicated himself to education, and been a strong role model for Latinos in academia. When he was 14 his family joined the migrant farm worker stream, but his parents' commitment to education paid off. He received a PhD from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Dr. Martinez shares about his childhood, his adversities, persistence and the importance of goal setting. He is a retired president of three community colleges in Chicago, San Diego, and Los Angeles. Dr. Ted Martinez, Jr. serves as Executive Director of the National Community College Latino Leadership Fellows Program. His commitment to excellence in education has been recognized by several honors including the 2016 Alfredo G. De Los Santos Jr. Distinguished Leadership in Higher Education Award.

Pat Bubb, a passionate educator, describes her early years in her career and all her efforts in grant writing to start the Tech Prep program. She led many initiatives and partnered with chambers of commerce and economic development agencies in numerous efforts to create better opportunities for Rio Grande Valley (RGV) students. For more than 30 years she directed RGV Lead, a Texas non-profit corporation, with purpose. Mrs. Bubb provides life advice and explains how her faith and a strong work ethic helped her succeed. She discusses some adversities and how she persisted in her journey. Mrs. Bubb also talks about the importance of having realistic expectations and the importance of being nice to oneself.

Julian Alvarez the III, Commissioner Representing Labor of the Texas Workforce Commission shares about growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, the adversities he faced and his definition for success. He also touches on his diverse experiences while working as the Texas Regional Director for U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson and as a State Trooper for the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Mr. Alvarez provides life advice and discusses on the importance of being an integral and visionary leader.

Pilar Gonzalez, single mother, discusses her life growing up, moving to different countries, working at diverse professions and the path that led her to become an entrepreneur. In 2010, Pilar Gonzalez, mother of three young children, began creating and producing yogurt-based dips in her home kitchen, had no idea where this would take her.  She has reached the $1M dollar sales with her dip it by Pilar company. The manufacturing company is located in Mission, Texas, along the U.S.-Mexico border.  Pilar provides life advice and shares how she makes the best of every experience and sees every adversity as an opportunity. 

Wayne Williams, Wildlife Photographer shares some of his personal adversities, what has helped him overcome, educational pathway and faith walk. He also discusses how he discovered his passion for photography, the diverse wildlife adventures, the diverse hats he has worn throughout his life and the importance of resilience and dedication.

Dr. Qubbaj, mechanical engineer and Cool Dean, provides an overview of his childhood years and experiences growing up in the Middle East. Also, he emphasizes the importance of soft skills, what makes a good engineer, leader and knowing your purpose. He talks about finding your why and making a difference in the lives of others. He reveals how he earned the "Cool Dean" title. Dr. Qubbaj is the Dean of the College of Engineering & Computer Science at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). Over the last several years, he has developed several initiatives (and grants) to increase the representation of women (and Latinas) in STEM careers. Dr. Qubbaj received his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from the University of Oklahoma.

Dr. Luzelma Garza Canales, Associate Vice President of Leadership Learning & Activation at Branch Alliance for Educator Diversity, shares her story of growing up in a migrant working family and her efforts in improving education for students and Latino leaders.

Jonathan Medina grew up in a low income community in the United States in a single-parent household. He's mother was first incarcerated while he was in middle school, then again in high school. Jonathan was raised by his grandfather, but despite of these and numerous of other adversities he has become an amazing Youth Motivator and author!

Dr. Juan Mejia shares about his childhood growing up in South Texas, his experiences of being a first generation college student and his journey to becoming a college president.

Dr. Bagley, Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering, shares his story about not knowing much of what college was, the need for mentors, setting goals and how to overcome career and personal adversities. He explains how finding his "why", study groups and the Lord helped him persist. Currently serves as Dean of STEM and Social Sciences at Yuba College in California.

Dr. Rosemond Moore, electrical engineer, shares about growing up in South Chicago, her challenges in the classroom and the obstacles she had to overcome while working in a non-traditional career. She shares her journey and the passion for what she does as well as the need to have mentors and the importance of goal setting.