Raices y Realidades

Episode #7: Caroline Gómez-Tom on Health Insurance, Outcomes, and Latino Well-Being

In this episode of Raíces y Realidades, we sit down with Milwaukee County Supervisor Caroline Gómez-Tom—who also serves with Covering Wisconsin—to talk about one of the most important issues facing the Latino community: health. We unpack the data around insurance coverage, why Latinos remain among the least insured groups in Wisconsin, and what that means for long-term health outcomes. But we go further—because having insurance doesn’t guarantee access, quality care, or good health. Caroline shares what needs to change, what’s working, and how we can move from coverage to real care. Tune in for a grounded, practical conversation about health equity and the future of Latino well-being in our region.

Episode #6: Brian Troyer on Demographics, Degrees, and Latino Student Success

In this episode of Raíces y Realidades, we sit down with Brian Troyer, Vice President for Enrollment at Marquette University, to talk about the future of higher education—and why Latino students are at the center of it. By 2040, Latinos will make up 36% of the college-age population. That’s a major opportunity—and a major responsibility—for colleges and universities across the country. Increasing the number of Latinos with college degrees isn’t just important for Latinos—it’s essential for our region’s long-term success. Brian shares how Marquette has become a leader in Latino student retention and graduation—and what it takes to support students from enrollment to degree. Tune in for a conversation about data, strategy, and how we can all play a role in building a stronger, more educated Latino future.

Episode #5: Dr. Nelson Soler on Unlocking Latino Entrepreneurship

In this episode of Raíces y Realidades, we speak with Dr. Nelson Soler, founder of the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Southeastern Wisconsin and the Multicultural Entrepreneurial Institute. Nationally, Latinos are starting businesses at faster rates than any other group—responsible for 40% of all new startups in the U.S. last year. But in Milwaukee, the numbers tell a different story. Dr. Soler breaks down why Latino business ownership remains low locally, what investments are needed to change that, and how a thriving Latino entrepreneurial ecosystem could benefit the entire region. Tune in to hear what’s holding Milwaukee back—and what it’ll take to move forward.

Episode #4: Laura Arce on Building Wealth, One Home at a Time

In this episode of Raíces y Realidades, we sit down with Laura Arce, Senior Vice President for Economic Initiatives at UnidosUS and the architect behind the HOME—Home Ownership Means Equity—initiative. We talk about what homeownership really means for Latino families, why Milwaukee is behind the national average, and the promising signs of progress already happening in the region. Laura shares both the data and the hope, offering a national perspective with real relevance for local action. If you care about closing the racial wealth gap, building economic opportunity, and seeing more Latino families thrive in Milwaukee, this conversation is for you. Listen now and learn why homeownership isn’t just about houses—it’s about equity, stability, and the future of our communities.

Episode#3: Paulina Gutierrez on the Latino Voter Turnout and the Power of Participation

In this episode of Raíces y Realidades, we sit down with Paulina Gutierrez, Executive Director of the Milwaukee Election Commission, to talk about voting, power, and accountability. Latino voter turnout remains low in Milwaukee—but why? And what will it take to change that? Paulina shares insights from the front lines of election access and challenges both individuals and institutions to step up. We talk about systems, self-responsibility, and what’s possible when Latino communities are fully engaged in shaping their future. Tune in for a candid, urgent conversation about civic power—and what it’ll take to unlock it.