Auténtico Podcast

Empowering Latina Voices: A Conversation with Esmeralda Aharon on Calladitas Rising

In this special episode of Autentico Podcast, we kick off a series dedicated to the powerful voices behind the Calladitas Rising anthology. We begin with an insightful conversation with Esmeralda Aharon [https://www.linkedin.com/in/aharones/], co-founder of Latinas Rising [https://www.linkedin.com/company/latinas-rising/?viewAsMember=true] and a driving force behind this groundbreaking project. Esmeralda shares her journey of bringing Calladitas Rising to life—both as a compiler and an author. She delves into the inspiration behind the anthology, her personal experiences that shaped her vision, and the challenges she faced along the way. Through this discussion, you will gain a deeper understanding of what it means to amplify Latina voices, create space for authentic storytelling, and empower women to rise. Whether you're passionate about storytelling, interested in Latina empowerment, or just looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the resilience, creativity, and leadership that are at the heart of Calladitas Rising. Episode Highlights: - The journey of creating Calladitas Rising - Esmeralda's lived experiences and their impact on the anthology - Challenges and triumphs in compiling the anthology - What Esmeralda is most proud of in this project Esmeralda Aharon, M.A., embodies resilience and tenacity. Born near the US-Mexico border as a first-generation American, she overcame poverty by working as a migrant farmworker in Michigan's fields from age 8 through high school. After marrying and losing a son to sudden infant death syndrome, she channeled her pain into a sense of purpose by joining the United States Air Force. She dedicated 26 years to Religious Affairs, supporting service members and their families in achieving spiritual health. As a combat veteran, she left her husband and children behind and spent over 20 months in the Middle East across four deployments. Nearly losing her life during her last pregnancy due to placenta percreta and receiving 14 units of blood, she chose to save her baby instead of herself. In gratitude to God for granting both of their lives, she has dedicated her life to serving others. Following her retirement from the Air Force and becoming a widow during the pandemic, she transitioned into a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practitioner, representing Latinas in higher education and advocating for healthcare equity through her work at Saint Louis University. Most recently, she co-founded Latinas Rising LLC to support women’s personal and professional lives. A social justice advocate, mentor to many, doctoral student, #1 international best-selling author, avid yogini, and photographer with prints in a gallery, Esmeralda’s personal and professional journey demonstrates that with faith and tenacity, anything is possible. #AutenticoPodcast [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/autenticopodcast?__eep__=6&__cft__[0]=AZWqLIguap4B3z6GSvTz7qEIra4WCoR7kmEfsq1krRsuwbl6JjCgUP6YhkboNqf10ASvoSpcnabZ2oUjktDe7_3VNt-p6AH9x58-IfKpK4GBRD9vrnBoNcKtpUOac54m3P0Ego70ED-XXisdmj8o7R9rr2uIQD4NHN8rjfsOBSx9yyc19ad-vmynagr3cGCgNu_Omla-BR8h-L56jZHTsEfE&__tn__=*NK-R] #creciendojuntos [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/creciendojuntos?__eep__=6&__cft__[0]=AZWqLIguap4B3z6GSvTz7qEIra4WCoR7kmEfsq1krRsuwbl6JjCgUP6YhkboNqf10ASvoSpcnabZ2oUjktDe7_3VNt-p6AH9x58-IfKpK4GBRD9vrnBoNcKtpUOac54m3P0Ego70ED-XXisdmj8o7R9rr2uIQD4NHN8rjfsOBSx9yyc19ad-vmynagr3cGCgNu_Omla-BR8h-L56jZHTsEfE&__tn__=*NK-R] #soyStLouis 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[https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/latinxpodcast?__eep__=6&__cft__[0]=AZWqLIguap4B3z6GSvTz7qEIra4WCoR7kmEfsq1krRsuwbl6JjCgUP6YhkboNqf10ASvoSpcnabZ2oUjktDe7_3VNt-p6AH9x58-IfKpK4GBRD9vrnBoNcKtpUOac54m3P0Ego70ED-XXisdmj8o7R9rr2uIQD4NHN8rjfsOBSx9yyc19ad-vmynagr3cGCgNu_Omla-BR8h-L56jZHTsEfE&__tn__=*NK-R] #Leadership [https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/leadership?__eep__=6&__cft__[0]=AZWqLIguap4B3z6GSvTz7qEIra4WCoR7kmEfsq1krRsuwbl6JjCgUP6YhkboNqf10ASvoSpcnabZ2oUjktDe7_3VNt-p6AH9x58-IfKpK4GBRD9vrnBoNcKtpUOac54m3P0Ego70ED-XXisdmj8o7R9rr2uIQD4NHN8rjfsOBSx9yyc19ad-vmynagr3cGCgNu_Omla-BR8h-L56jZHTsEfE&__tn__=*NK-R] #CalladitasRising #LatinasRising #EsmeraldaAharon #Anthology

Ben Molina: Advocating for Change

I am thrilled to have Ben Molina [https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennmolina/] back to share the incredible strides he's making in community development here in Missouri. In this episode, Ben Molina, who works at Cortex [https://www.cortexstl.org/sq1/] and serves as the chair of the Hispanic Leaders Group [https://www.stlhlg.org/], discusses his journey in supporting small business owners and advocating for the Latino community. From launching innovative programs at Cortex to driving civic engagement and empowerment through the Hispanic Leaders Group, Ben's dedication to positive change is truly inspiring. Ben dives into exciting initiatives like the Square One Boot Camp, which provides essential business skills to entrepreneurs, and a groundbreaking match savings program in partnership with St. Louis Community Credit Union. He also sheds light on his advocacy work, including the impactful Hispanic Capital Day and efforts to combat negative rhetoric about immigrants in Missouri. 💬 Quote from Ben: "I really want our community to feel empowered. Join me for this enlightening conversation and learn how Ben Molina drives change, empowers our community, and creates a brighter future for all. Be sure to subscribe to the Auténtico Podcast and stay connected with us for more inspiring stories and impactful discussions. Thank you for tuning in!

Mente Maestra with Karlos Ramírez featuring Elias Corpas, and Pat Brennan

In this fourth episode of Mente Maestra Karlos is joined by Elias Corpas and Pat Brennan on Building Bridges: A Community Approach to Networking. Karlos and his guests dive into the power of community and discover how to elevate your networking strategies to new heights. 1. Articulating Value in Networking: Learn how transparency and clear communication can help you define and achieve your networking goals. 2. Overcoming Networking Challenges: Get practical advice on breaking into new circles, avoiding repetitive networking, and handling "stage five clingers." 3. Engaging and Maintaining Relationships: Discover the secrets to keeping your network active and mutually beneficial using methods like the FORD approach and organizing quarterly meetups. * Karlos Ramirez: “Building a network isn’t just about collecting contacts; it’s about creating meaningful connections that uplift and support each other.” * Elias Corpas: “Networking is about authenticity. When you approach it with a genuine desire to help others, you build bridges that last.” * Pat Brennan: “The strength of your network lies in the diversity of its members and the depth of the relationships you cultivate.” * Leadership and fatherhood are deeply interconnected, with lessons from each sphere enriching the other. * Vulnerability and accountability are crucial in both personal and professional growth. * Presence, patience, empathy, and consistency are fundamental qualities for effective leadership at home and work. * Follow Karlos Ramírez [https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlos-ramirez-8a872b8/], Elias Corpas [https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliascorpas/], and Pat Brennan [https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-brennan-09aa504/] on LinkedIn for more insights on leadership and community involvement. * Subscribe to Auténtico Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. * Join the conversation on social media by following @AutenticoPodcast If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your friends. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations and insightful discussions on leadership and personal growth. Disclaimer [https://www.autenticopodcast.com/disclaimer]

Mente Maestra with Karlos Ramírez featuring Sisi Beltran, John Davila and Kitty Lohrum

In this third episode of Mente Maestra Karlos is joined by Sisi Beltran, John Davila, and Kitty Lohrum on Building Strong Communities: The Power of a Personal Board of Directors; Karlos and his guests discuss the incredible benefits of having a trusted circle to guide your personal and professional growth. 1. Vulnerability and Trust: “But knowing that I can come to either one of you and nobody's gonna judge me. Nobody's gonna make fun of me. Nothing negative. I think there's so much to be said for that.” - Karlos Ramirez 2. Diverse Perspectives: “Find someone who, you know, and love who thinks differently than you. That’s really where you grow.” - Kitty Lohrum 3. Cultural Understanding: “We limit ourselves so much with the junk that's in our head. Either we're too busy. We're not, we're, we don't know enough. Sometimes we're not good enough and expanding that, getting rid of all of that to, to allow yourself to be prosperous and fruitful to the extent that you can be as a person.” - John Davila 4. Valuing Partner Input: “When you think about your partner, you give them a different reserve spot... They can be the next consultation once you've taken in the board POV.” - Sisi Beltran * “Here's the hard part: find someone who, you know, and love who thinks differently than you... That’s really where you grow.” - Kitty Lohrum * “We limit ourselves so much with the junk that's in our head. Expanding that, getting rid of all of that, allows you to be prosperous and fruitful to the extent that you can be as a person.” - John Davila * “When you think about your partner, you give them a different reserve spot... They can be the next consultation once you've taken in the board POV.” - Sisi Beltran * Leadership and fatherhood are deeply interconnected, with lessons from each sphere enriching the other. * Vulnerability and accountability are crucial in both personal and professional growth. * Presence, patience, empathy, and consistency are fundamental qualities for effective leadership at home and work. * Follow Karlos Ramírez [https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlos-ramirez-8a872b8/], Sisi Beltran [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sisibeltran/], John Davila  [https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmdavila/], and Kitty Lohrum [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kittylohrum/] on LinkedIn for more insights on leadership and community involvement. * Stay tuned for more episodes of Mente Maestra, where Karlos Ramirez will explore various aspects of leadership and personal development. * Subscribe to Auténtico Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. * Join the conversation on social media by following @AutenticoPodcast If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your friends. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations and insightful discussions on leadership and personal growth. Disclaimer [https://www.autenticopodcast.com/disclaimer]

Mente Maestra with Karlos Ramírez Featuring Facundo Oyenard and TC Slater

In this 2nd episode of the Auténtico Podcast’s new series, Karlos Ramirez hosts a conversation with Facundo Oyenard and TC Slater, diving deep into the power of men championing women and fostering resilient communities. Here are three key takeaways from their dicussion: 1. Embrace Diversity & Personal Journeys: The trio emphasizes the importance of shedding labels and embracing individuals' unique backgrounds and journeys. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding, we pave the way for authentic connection and empowerment. 2. Intentional Inclusivity & Community Building: Facundo and TC share actionable strategies for cultivating intentional inclusivity and amplifying diverse voices within our communities. From actively listening to embracing creativity, their insights inspire us to create environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive. 3. Consistent Support & Genuine Empowerment: Through consistent, genuine support, men can play a pivotal role in empowering women and driving sustainable change. By championing women's voices and initiatives, we contribute to the collective strength of our communities, fostering resilience and growth. * Facundo Oyenard: ”Persistency with a willingness to make changes in the process.” * TC Slater: “Consistency is key. You change one person's world, you're changing the world.” * Understanding Individual Motivations: Take the time to understand why individuals, regardless of gender, are pursuing certain roles or endeavors. This personal insight can guide mentorship and support effectively. * Avoiding Assumptions and Labels: Embrace diversity by avoiding preconceived notions or stereotypes. Recognize and appreciate differences in backgrounds, experiences, and aspirations without applying limiting labels. * Consistent and Genuine Support: Sustainable empowerment comes from consistent, intentional, and genuine support. Being a champion for women involves persistent efforts to uplift and amplify their voices and opportunities within communities. Follow Karlos [https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlos-ramirez-8a872b8/], Facundo [https://www.linkedin.com/in/facundo-oyenard-9b5352106/], and TC [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tcslater/] on LinkedIn for more insights on leadership and community involvement. Thank you for listening to the first episode of Mente Maestra. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your friends. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations and insightful discussions on leadership and personal growth. Disclaimer [https://www.autenticopodcast.com/disclaimer]