Breaking Down Barriers, Building Up Businesses | Ep. 7

Martin's Supermercado | The Latino Business Journey Podcast Ep. 8

What began in 1999 with limited inventory and the hope of supporting their family has grown into a beloved supermarket chain with three locations. Facing challenges like higher wholesale prices and fierce competition from larger chains, Theresa and Alberto positioned Martin’s Supermercado as more than a store—it’s a one-stop shop where Latino families can find products that remind them of home, all while being treated like family. Here is the story of how Martin's Supermercado came to be. Produced by Inspired Views Productions Co. Producer: Esaú Meléndez Host: Michael Puente Sound Recordist: Cory Fallows Sound Engineer: Lucas Bernal Studio: 2112 Chicago Digital Manager: Edgar Estrada

Breaking Down Barriers, Building Up Businesses | Ep. 7

Letticia Flores Poole, Senior Regional Manager with BMO’s Zero Barriers to Business program, shares her 25-year journey in banking and her mission to break down financial barriers for Black and Latino-owned businesses. From securing access to capital to providing financial education, Letticia highlights how trust, cultural awareness, and strategic planning can transform communities and help minority businesses thrive.

The Rise of a Business Giant | Ep. 6

Guillermo Garcia, CEO of GSG Consulting, shares his remarkable story of transforming a small environmental services company into one of the largest Hispanic-owned consulting firms in the Midwest. Overcoming early struggles without industry support, Guillermo built his business through sheer determination, networking, and advocacy - ultimately taking on major projects with agencies like the Chicago Department of Aviation. His inspiring story offers invaluable lessons for Latino entrepreneurs.

From the Barrio to the Board Room | Ep. 5

From East LA to the boardroom, Dr. Robert Renteria shares his powerful journey of overcoming adversity, rising in corporate America, and dedicating his life to education and mentorship. Discover how his “From the Barrio to the Boardroom” curriculum has impacted thousands of students globally and his ongoing fight against gang violence through hope and education.

A Business Built On Language: Metaphrasis | Ep. 4

In this episode, we're joined by Elizabeth Colón, founder of Metaphrasis, a translation and interpretation agency in Chicago. Elizbeth grew up translating documents and interpreting meetings for her parents, who struggled with English. Understanding the challenges that language barriers create in areas such as healthcare and education, she founded Metaphrasis to assist others facing difficulties similar to those of her family. She shares her journey from a home office to a thriving language services business, transforming healthcare communication.