Latino Business Report

Ep. 128 - What’s the difference between Hispanic and Latino—and do those terms really mean the same thing? In this episode of The Latino Business Report, we sit down with Dr. Maria Del Carmon Unda to explore the origins and evolving meanings of Hispanic, Latino, and Chicano. This conversation goes beyond labels to uncover how identity is shaped—and why how someone chooses to identify is personal and worth respecting. Tune in and discover the deeper story behind the words we use every day. Recommended Reading: Pew Research Center. (2013). Preferences for the terms “Hispanic” and “Latino” [Data Set]. Pew Research Center Survey of Hispanic Adults. https://www.pewresearch.org/hispanic/2013/10/22/three-fourths-of-hispanics-say-their-co mmunity-needs-a-leader/ph-hispanic-leader-10-2013-03-04/   Revilla, A. T. (2000). LatCrit and CRT in the field of education: A theoretical dialogue between two colleagues. Denver University Law Review., 78, 623. https://heinonline.org/HOL/P?h=hein.journals/denlr78&i=634   Perea,

Episode 127 - What happens when the spaces designed to support identity, culture, and opportunity begin to disappear? Across the country, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs are being dismantled or redefined—and students are feeling it firsthand. At the University of Texas at Austin, proposed changes within the College of Liberal Arts are raising serious concerns about the future of Mexican American and Latina/o Studies and the broader network of programs that have long supported student success and community impact. In this episode of Latino Business Report, we sit down with a student leader who is speaking up, organizing, and refusing to be sidelined. This is a candid, on-the-ground conversation about what’s really happening, why it matters, and what could be lost if these changes move forward. This isn’t just a policy discussion—it’s a story about voice, identity, and the fight to preserve spaces that have shaped generations.

Episode 126 - Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life? In this episode, From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Strategies for Busy Lives, we sit down with Health, Wellness, and Life Coach Lina Warner to talk about what it really takes to regain control and create a life that feels balanced, focused, and fulfilling. Certified through the International Coaching Federation, Lina brings both professional expertise and real-life experience to the conversation. As a busy parent herself, she understands the challenges of juggling responsibilities while trying to stay motivated and healthy. She shares practical strategies for building sustainable habits, tackling big goals without burnout, and creating systems that actually work. If you’ve been feeling stuck, stretched thin, or unsure how to move forward, this episode is packed with insights to help you take that first step. Lina breaks down how accountability, consistency, and the right mindset can transform not only your personal growth but also your relationsh

Episode 125 - Spanish-language television helped shape culture, identity, and political power in the United States. On today’s episode, we’re joined by media entrepreneur and author Javier Marín to discuss his new book, Live from America: How Latino TV Conquered the United States (Grupo Planeta). Javier traces the rise of the Spanish International Network—now Univision—from its early days to its emergence as the nation’s leading Hispanic media network. We go behind the scenes to explore the personal rivalries, strategic decisions, and cultural shifts that turned Spanish-language TV into a powerful force—from telenovelas and soccer to news and politics. The conversation also highlights how the U.S. became the world’s second-largest Spanish-speaking country and the role Latino media played in shaping national history. A compelling look at the network that helped give a community its voice.

Episode 124 - Before sunrise on July 16, 1945, the New Mexico desert became the epicenter of a new and terrifying era. The Trinity test—the world’s first nuclear explosion—changed the planet forever, without warning the tens of thousands of people living nearby. In the years that followed, families across surrounding communities began to suffer mysterious and devastating health effects. They became known as the Downwinders—ordinary people living with the consequences of an extraordinary and closely guarded secret. This episode explores Downwind, a world-premiere opera by student composers Michael Smith and Demian Galvan. After traveling to New Mexico to better understand the land and the legacy of Trinity, the composers bring these often-ignored stories to the stage. As Smith writes, “While the family in our opera is fictional, the reality that they face is not.” Together, we examine the history, the harm, and the haunting beauty of a work that asks a powerful question: what does progress cost—and who is made

Episode 123 - Texas State University’s New Program Helps ‘LIFT’ Small Business Growth Small businesses fuel local economies — but growth requires the right tools, training, and support. In this episode, we spotlight Texas State University’s Learning and Insights for Forward Traction (LIFT) accelerator, a six-week program designed to strengthen marketing skills and help small businesses scale with confidence. Developed by Texas State’s SCALEUP initiative and delivered in collaboration with the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) and community partners, LIFT recently graduated more than 300 small business leaders from across Texas and beyond. Participants reported major gains in marketing confidence, social media strategy, goal setting, and practical execution. You’ll hear insights from program leaders Dr. Josh Daspit and Dr. Marlene Orozco on how research-driven training translates into real-world growth, as well as why access to practical tools matters for long-term economic st

Episode 122 - Security vs. Sustainability: The Future of the Rio Grande Guest: Jessie F. Fuentes, Founder & Owner, Epi’s Canoe & Kayak Team The Rio Grande is more than a border — it’s a lifeline for communities, wildlife, and commerce. But floating buoys, razor wire, and increased militarization are reshaping the river’s safety and future. Join us as Jessie F. Fuentes shares firsthand insight into how these changes are impacting the environment, local businesses, and cross-border cooperation — and why protecting borders should never mean destroying the resources that sustain our communities.  

Episode 121 - Today’s guest is a powerful example of what’s possible when passion, resilience, and purpose come together. Lupita McGregor Almuhana is the Founder and CEO of Stressie, a tech-enabled wellness platform delivering fast, personalized, evidence-based tools to help people manage stress and thrive at work. With nearly two decades of experience driving growth in global marketing and business development—and a lifelong mindfulness practice that took her from yoga studios to India—Lupita bridges science and soul in everything she builds. Her resilience was shaped early, beginning work at just 14 to help support her single mother, an experience that instilled a powerful work ethic and empathy-driven leadership style. Holding a master’s degree in psychology from Harvard, Lupita is on a mission to make mental health support accessible, scalable, and human-centered for today’s workforce. This conversation explores entrepreneurship, purpose-driven leadership, and how technology can elevate wellbeing in the w

Episode 120 - Dave Munson didn’t launch Saddleback Leather from a sleek office or a polished pitch deck. He started in a dusty leather shop in Mexico—with a hand-drawn sketch, a leap of faith, and one ironclad rule: no breakable parts. His mission? Building something so rugged and well made his kids would fight over it when he was gone. What came next reads more like an action movie than a business plan. Dodging hitmen. Getting thrown by a raging bull. Living in one of the most dangerous cities in the world. Even accidentally working for the nesmafia. Out of that chaos was born Saddleback Leather—now a global, iconic brand known for its 100-year warranty, old-world craftsmanship, and a cult-like following that swears by every stitch. In this episode of Latino Business Report, we dive into a story of grit, faith, and fearless entrepreneurship—and what it really takes to build a legacy that outlasts trends, titles, and lifetimes. Because the boldest businesses—and the best adventures—are the ones you never plan

Episode 119 - New Year’s resolutions are easy to make—and just as easy to abandon. If you’re serious about real change this year, this episode is a must-listen. We sit down with Laura Ramirez, a seasoned psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, to break down why most resolutions fail and what you can do differently starting now. Laura delivers seven clear, practical tips to help you stop drifting, refocus on what matters, and turn good intentions into consistent action. This isn’t about perfection or wishful thinking, it’s about accountability, momentum, and making changes that actually stick. If you don’t want this year to look like the last one, press play.

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, family, and celebration—but for many, it can also bring stress, loneliness, and emotional challenges. In this episode, we sit down with Laura Ramirez, a seasoned psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s toughest moments. Laura shares practical strategies and insights to help you manage the emotional ups and downs that can arise during Christmas. From coping with holiday stress to finding peace amidst the chaos, this conversation offers tools to support your mental well-being during the festive season. Whether you’re feeling merry or a little overwhelmed, this episode is for you. Tune in and discover how to make this holiday season more balanced and meaningful. Ep 118 _12.23.2025  

Episode 116: Unlocking the Power of Multicultural Marketing with Hernan Tagliani Episode Description: Today, we’re diving into the world of multicultural marketing and the growing influence of the Hispanic market in the U.S. My guest, Hernan Tagliani, is a leading expert in this space—an award-winning strategist who helps Fortune 500 companies connect authentically with diverse audiences. My guest, Hernan Tagliani, is an award-winning marketing strategist, author of Multicultural Mainstream, and founder of one of the fastest-growing multicultural agencies in the country. He’s helped Fortune 500 brands connect authentically with diverse audiences and has been recognized as a Top 10 Latino Influencer and CEO of the Year. In this episode, we explore:

Episode 115 - Welcome to another episode of the Latino Business Report. If you’re tuning in for the first time — gracias and bienvenidos! You can explore our full library of episodes anytime at LatinoBusinessReport.com. In this episode, we’re having an open and insightful conversation about Latinos and Mental Health. Our guest is one of my favorites and a familiar voice on the show — certified psychotherapist Laura Ramirez from Houston, Texas. Laura sheds light on the cultural stigmas that often hold Latinos back from seeking therapy and offers practical ways to challenge those beliefs. Together, we’ll explore how we can shift perspectives, normalize conversations around mental health, and embrace healthier ways of caring for ourselves and our families. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive in.

Episode 114 - Haydn Vitera – Mariachi Rock Revolution Our guest today is no stranger to pushing musical boundaries. A classically trained violinist, powerhouse vocalist, and seasoned performer, Haydn Vitera has shared the stage with legends and carved out his own space with a bold new sound. He’s the visionary behind Mariachi Rock Revolution, a high-energy fusion of mariachi and rock that’s redefining what it means to celebrate cultural heritage through music. In this episode, Haydn talks about his musical journey, the inspiration behind blending mariachi with electrifying rock, and how this unique sound is both honoring tradition and breaking new ground. Event Spotlight Kick off Hispanic Heritage Month with a very special night at the Long Center on Sunday, September 14th: Mariachi Rock Revolution: The Electrified Experience Featuring Haydn Vitera’s Mariachi Rock Revolution, The University of Texas Mariachi Paredes, and Grammy-winner Rick Treviño. Benefiting Mariachi Para Todos, part of Austin Soundwaves, w

Episode 113 - From Stage to Stateman: Bobby Pulido’s Next Chapter Episode Summary: In this heartfelt and candid episode, we sit down with Latin Grammy-winning Tejano icon Bobby Pulido, who’s currently in the middle of his highly anticipated farewell tour after a groundbreaking 30-year career in music. Bobby reflects on his unexpected rise to fame—from a young man who once dreamed of becoming a lawyer to becoming one of the most recognizable and celebrated voices in Tejano music. He shares the personal and professional turning points that shaped his journey, and why now, even at the height of his success, he's stepping away from the stage. And what’s next? Bobby is preparing for a new chapter—public service. While we pressed (gently and not-so-gently) for clues about a potential political run, Bobby keeps those cards close to his chest. No confirmations here, just a little speculative fun. Tune in for a conversation full of laughs, memories, and a few surprises. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discoverin

Episode 112 -This week on Latino Business Report, we bring you the incredible    journey of Aaron Quinonez — better known as Sgt. Q. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, PTSD survivor, and faith-driven entrepreneur, Sgt. Q has turned trauma into triumph by building not only homes for the poor but also successful businesses that empower others. Raised in chaos and hardship, Aaron found purpose after nearly ending his own life. Through faith, service, and grit, he transformed his pain into action — founding Q Missions, launching impactful ventures, and becoming a beacon of hope for veterans and entrepreneurs alike.

Episode 111 - Episode Title: Modern Slavery: The Human Trafficking Crisis Podcast: The Latino Business Report Guest: Detective Cadenas, Austin Police Department – Human Trafficking Unit Episode Summary: In this powerful and eye-opening episode, we sit down with Detective Cadenas from the Austin Police Department’s Human Trafficking Unit to shed light on one of the world’s fastest-growing criminal enterprises: human trafficking. What You’ll Learn: The different forms human trafficking can take—and how it often hides in plain sight Why trafficking remains a highly profitable and dangerous business Common red flags and warning signs that someone may be a victim How everyday people can help identify and support those affected Key Takeaway: Human trafficking isn’t just a far-off issue—it could be happening in your community. This episode will challenge you to see the world with more awareness and compassion. Call to Action: Be informed. Be alert. And don’t be afraid to report suspicious activity. Your aw

Episode 101 – Fairness for Small Biz: The Fight for HB 2428 in Texas Latino Business Report Welcome to the show! In this episode, we’re diving into a critical conversation unfolding right here in Texas—one that could reshape how small businesses across the state operate and survive. We’re joined by two powerhouse guests:

Episode 109 -Telling our stories is part of who we are — it’s in our culture, our blood, our history. But now more than ever, we need to amplify those stories — for the world and for our own communities. In this episode of Latino Business Report, I sit down with storyteller and friend Catherine Jones, proud daughter of Cuban immigrants and Editor At Large for Nuestro Stories. Join us as we talk about the power of storytelling, identity, and why preserving our cultura through our words matters more than ever. website- Nuestro Stories - Latino Heritage. Every Day. 

Episode 108 - Meet Toucan – Your New Favorite Cocktail Companion Crafting the perfect cocktail isn’t always easy—until now. In this episode, we chat with Tatiana Chamorro, one of the founders of Toucan, about their game changing Two Can technology. Say goodbye to the mess and prep—just shake, pour, and enjoy. Whether you’re a cocktail lover or just curious, this episode is your go-to for effortless mixology and delicious inspiration. Cheers! Website - Ready to Drink Cocktails | Toucan Cocktails  50% Discount Code - Chief Martini Officer