Hella Latin@ Podcast Interview

Holaaa, it’s Luis Baez here, and I'm excited to share one of the realest discussions I've ever had on a podcast. This interview with the "Hella Latin@" podcast was hosted by the incredible Odayis Jasmine. This episode delves deep into celebrating latinidad, navigating first-gen experiences, and embracing our cultural richness and personal narratives. If you're all about diving into stories of resilience, identity, and community excellence, this episode will resonate with you deeply.

Episode Breakdown:

[00:00 - 05:00] Introduction and Background:

• Odalis kicks off the episode with a warm welcome, introducing me as a guest. She highlights my journey from working with major Silicon Valley companies to empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs and teaching at prestigious universities.

[05:01 - 10:00] Discussing Identity and Cultural Background:

• We dive into a heartfelt discussion about identity. I share how my upbringing in Puerto Rico and the Bronx has shaped my perspective, along with the layers of being a New Yorker, a proud gay man, and a Latino navigating various spaces.

[10:01 - 15:00] The Impact of Layers on Personal and Professional Life:

• The conversation explores the pivotal layers added through my experiences—from facing bullying due to my accent to navigating the majority-white spaces in college, and the professional world.

[15:01 - 20:00] Navigating Corporate America:

• I discuss the challenges of being 'the only' in various corporate environments and how these experiences have influenced my approach as a sales leader and diversity advocate.

[20:01 - 25:00] Strategies for Maintaining Authenticity:

• We delve into strategies for staying true to oneself in challenging environments, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in personal branding and leadership.

[25:01 - 30:00] Listener Q&A:

• Engaging with listeners, I respond to questions about overcoming adversity, maintaining authenticity, and leveraging personal history to empower oneself in professional settings.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of culture, identity, and professional growth. It’s packed with inspiring anecdotes, strategies for self-empowerment, and a deep dive into the significance of embracing our full selves in all aspects of life.

Catch the full episode here — and let's celebrate our stories and the strength they bring to our lives and careers!