Leaders On the Mic

Leaders On the Mic

In this podcast by Elevate Latinos, discover the untold stories of Latino perseverance, success, and empowerment beyond stereotypes that are driving America’s economic growth. Join host, Ana Valdez, as she engages with inspiring high-profile guests offering valuable experience, practical insights, and a narrative often absent from mainstream media; one that highlights the true new mainstream. Whether you’re seeking role models, actionable knowledge, or a fresh perspective, this podcast provides the tools to inspire and empower your journey.

Episodes

December 29, 2025 46 mins

In this episode, host Ana Valdez, President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative, sits down with digital creator, influencer, and storyteller Nessa Diosdado.

Known for her authentic POV storytelling and powerful presence across social platforms and civil and political advocacy, Nessa has emerged as a leading Gen-Z voice exploring identity, culture, and the lived experiences of young Latinos navigating life in the U.S. Throug...

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In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the LDC) sits down with Jessica Santiago Byrd, Multicultural Marketing Manager at IKEA U.S., and a visionary leader shaping how major brands authentically connect with diverse communities. With a career devoted to inclusive storytelling and cultural insight, Jessica has led groundbreaking work; including the launch of IKEA’s U.S. Spanish-language website and national in-langu...

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December 11, 2025 68 mins

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the LDC) sits down with comedian, writer, investigative storyteller, and social commentator Che Guerrero. Known for blending humor with sharp social analysis, Che has become a leading voice on issues surrounding immigration, identity, and the undocumented experience, using storytelling to spark dialogue, challenge stereotypes, and build community across platforms.

Through his...

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November 23, 2025 21 mins

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the LDC) sits down with acclaimed unscripted-television producer and executive producer Rick Telles. Rick is best known as the Executive Producer of the recent Amazon Prime hit feature film A Million Miles Away, starring Michael Peña, and he brings decades of experience in forging compelling unscripted content.

Over his career, Rick has helped launch series such as the pionee...

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November 12, 2025 71 mins

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative) sits down with Brenden Pérez, a rising Mexican-Taiwanese violinist and social media creator redefining what it means to be a modern Latino artist, activist, and leader.

From classical roots to viral fame, Brenden shares how he’s breaking stereotypes, blending cultures, and using music to amplify representation and pride.

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In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative) sits down with Alex Valdez and Pablo De la Fuente, the directors of a new and inspiring nature documentary film called The Power of One from in which they plan to springboard a career where they to the wildest corners of the planet, teaming up with bold eco-heroes, who are bringing endangered ecosystems back to life. Together, they embark on th...

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October 27, 2025 61 mins

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative) sits down with Ada Cruz, an inspiring Latina influencer and voice redefining the immigrant journey of Latinos in America.

Ada shares the powerful story of her and her family, and how they overcame countless hardships that paid off immensely when she was accepted into Harvard and which she now uses as inspiration for her career in criminal law.

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October 21, 2025 49 mins

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative) sits down with Christian Maldonado, one of the most dynamic Latino influencers using digital platforms to amplify culture, humor, and authentic representation.

Christian shares his journey from creating viral content to becoming a powerful voice for Latino identity online, reflecting on how storytelling, comedy, and community can shift narrativ...

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October 14, 2025 19 mins

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative) sits down with Cristo Fernández, a prominent Latino actor known for his roles in Ted Lasso and Una Pequeña Confusión.

Cristo shares his experiences in representing Latino culture through a hit show around the world and the key cultural advantages that his heritage has brought him.

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September 23, 2025 61 mins

On our premiere episode of Leaders On the Mic, prominent social media influencer Fernanda Cortes joins our host, Ana Valdez, to discuss how to lead a career where millions of people are influenced by your work. Fernanda shares her journey as a Latina creator, the challenges and opportunities of building an authentic online presence, and how she uses her platform to elevate Latino voices, challenge stereotypes, and even teach about ...

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September 11, 2025 4 mins

Ana Valdez, host of the Leaders On the Mic Podcast, gives a brief introduction of what the topics, data and style that will be present in the upcoming episodes of this podcast about empowerment, aspiration and truth.

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