Hispanic Business Leaders

Ruben Mendiola > www.comcast.com

2012-01-27T10:21:00.001-05:00

Ruben Mendiola, Vice-President and General Manager of Multicultural Video Services, Comcast Corporation

Being Hispanic… Does it have any influence on your business?

Absolutely. Being Hispanic has always helped me by being culturally relevant and it also gives me a better understanding of our Hispanic consumers, the people that we serve

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?

One of the biggest challenges that I have ever faced was to move to this country. I knew I needed to be here to grow and further advance in my professional career. I had a really nice job and flourishing career in Mexico, so leaving that behind to come to the United States and restart my life was a difficult decision I had to make. Today I am truly happy with the end result.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

RM: I really would not change a thing about my life. I admire having the quality of patience, if any, I would love to have more patience.

What was your childhood ambition?

My childhood ambition was to become a lawyer. Helping and serving people was my passion so I studied law. Even today I am still doing that, helping people, but in different way. So to this day I still remain true to my childhood ambition.

Tell us about three people that you admire?

My mother, who's always been there for me. She possesses a lot of style combined with a lot of compassion. My two sisters; one of them I admire for her true passionate spirit, she's always looking to open doors for many people and she's also very elegant. And my other sister who is very practical and no-nonsense but also has a tremendous love and compassion for everyone. My family has really been a very strong role model for me. In a different capacity, Steve Jobs is someone I admire profoundly. He greatly influenced the way in which we do business today. I love the fact that he was always thinking outside the box and the payoff has been tremendous not only to his company but to the world.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?

For meetings, lunch… a long Latin lunch.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?

Well, I think that you have to sacrifice a little bit of your personal life to dedicate time to your professional life but in the end it pays off. The key here is to achieve balance between the two, which is what I'm working on now, trying to equally balance my personal and my professional life.

What is your favorite quote?

If you do not change the way you do things, you cannot expect different results.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?

No, not really. I think being unconventional is an advantage. This is how you find more opportunities.

Biggest mistake made?

Mistakes are lessons learned. I love this quote from Francisco Luis Bernardez “lo que el árbol tiene de florido vive de lo que tiene sepultado.” I really believe that all the mistakes I have made in my life, if you want to call them that way, have shaped me into who I am today and I'm very happy with that.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?

I personally enjoy building and rebuilding, branding and re-branding so the process of innovation, finding solutions and thinking outside the box are things I really love doing. I like to look at things from a different perspective to hopefully achieve better results. This is why I joined Comcast and I am proud of the exciting things we are doing here.

About the company

Comcast Corporation is one of the nation's leading providers of entertainment, information and communications products and services. Comcast is principally involved in the operation of cable systems through Comcast Cable and in the development, production and distribution of entertainment, news, sports and other content for global audiences through NBCUniversal. Comcast Cable is one of the nation's largest video, high-speed Internet and phone providers to residential and business customers. Comcast is the majority owner and manager of NBCUniversal, which owns and operates entertainment and news cable networks, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, local television station groups, television production operations, a major motion picture company and theme parks.

Martee Pierson > www.libertytaxespanol.com

2011-12-30T20:35:00.006-05:00

Martee Saldaña Pierson, Director of Diversity Programs, Liberty Tax Service

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?

Absolutely. Often, Hispanic programs, and diversity programs in general, are created by well-wishing professionals who really do not understand the experience of the Hispanic immigrant. The adage “It takes one to know one”, while cliché, holds true when one is investing in in-culture programs or marketing. This personal understanding allows for much more vested program plans that will resonate with the Latino target group, and, most importantly, it ensures that the messaging is written in a way that is easily comprehended so that it can be embraced appropriately. As we all know, Spanish-language messaging involves much more than merely translating English slogans or messages. To be successful, it requires inherent understanding of the Latino psyche in order to ensure resonance and clarity of message.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?

That’s an interesting question. The reality is that life in general is full of adversities. If we were to give up every time we met a roadblock, we might as well stay in bed and never leave the house! Believing in what you are doing is key to having passion. And, if one is passionate about her work, then only extraordinary results will suffice. As Confucius once said, “Find something that you are passionate about and you will never work a day in your life.”

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?

I really don’t measure challenges in terms of which is the biggest. A challenge is simply a challenge. I view challenges as an opportunity to help those who are “misinformed” become more enlightened so they too can support the goal. Even if you are not successful in having your plan approved, it is now your challenge to still make the plan that was approved as successful as possible, using the knowledge and/or foresight you might have that others may not. When I was a child and my parents would say “no”, I simply thought, “well they just don’t understand, let me try another approach!” It seems the hidden message here is tenacity.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I have had a great life and I fully intend to continue on this route. I really cannot see anything I would change since each event affected the person that I have become. But if I had to arrive at a choice, I would have loved to have had the intelligence to have invented a way to eliminate all disease, prejudice and hatred in the world.

What was your childhood ambition?
I always wanted to be a teacher. And while I did teach for one year, I quickly realized that it wasn’t exactly what I wanted. I was fortunate to have found my direction early and have had a great career that has involved teaching to an extent, but also strategizing on how best to approach an opportunity.

Tell us about three people that you admire?

There are so many people I admire, and I meet more on a near daily basis. If I must choose only three, they would be:

My mother was an unbelievable powerhouse and somehow always made things better in spite of any adversity. Her enduring choice to continuously view the best of a situation will always live with me and my sister.

Mahatma Gandhi would be my next choice because of his gentle approach to much needed hardline reform. He was a shining example of the effectiveness of persistence and the power of peaceful tenacity.

Abraham Lincoln, who showed great compassion while deploying steadfast leadership in a war that should have taught us all the importance of respect for humanity, regardless of color.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?

I’m a morning person, so I prefer breakfast meetings.

What sacrifices in your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?

I have had to learn how to balance business and personal enjoyment. While I am not always successful at achieving this balance, I have been fortunate in that I have really not been aware of any actual “sacrifice” on my personal life. There have numerous compromises that I have had to make, but I would not view them as sacrifices.

What is your favorite quote?
I have a couple of quotes that I live by, and I believe they are both anonymous:

“In order to succeed, you must be willing to fail.” (Life does not promise a safety net, in my opinion.)

“Pick the hill you want to die on.” (Making every decision a battle will not get you anything but exhausted. Be strategic. Ask yourself if this is really that important or is it ego or pride that is really driving the “fight”.)

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Anyone who knows me would argue the point that I am a shining example of “unconventional”. From my career choices to my basic personality, I have never had the desire nor felt the need to bow to convention.

Biggest mistake made?

Every mistake is always my “biggest mistake”. I take each very seriously and hold true to the ideal that one indeed does learn from their mistakes.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?

I strongly believe in innovation and therefore, I strive to be an innovative thinker. Without innovation, processes become stale and the view is that it is a “one size fits all world”. We, of course, realize that this is not a viable reality for any success-driven professional. Being able to embrace innovation is paramount to the livelihood of any company and must be part of the corporate culture in order for it to be successful.

About the Company

Liberty Tax Service (www.libertytaxespanol.com) is the fastest-growing retail tax preparation company in the industry’s history. Founded in 1997 by CEO John T. Hewitt, a pioneer in the tax industry, Liberty Tax Service has prepared over 8,000,000 individual income tax returns. With 41 years of tax industry experience, Hewitt is the most experienced CEO in the tax preparation business, having also founded Jackson Hewitt Tax Service (NYSE:JTX).

Each Liberty Tax office offers customers audit assistance, a money-back guarantee, and free tax return reviews. An elite group of Hispanic Services Seal of Excellence Certified offices also provide assistance in Spanish and offer many special services geared toward our Hispanic population free of charge, across the nation.

The Liberty Tax Service franchise opportunity is #7 on the list of fastest-growing franchises in Entrepreneur magazine’s “Franchise 500” list for 2011, and was selected as one of the top 25 Franchises for Hispanics by PODER magazine.

Lidia Soto Harmon > www.GSCNC.org

2011-09-20T01:00:00.000-04:00

Lidia Soto Hamon, CEO, Girl Scout Council of the Nation’s Capital

Being Hispanic… Does it have any influence on your business?

Being a Latina helps to guide the work that I do because it helps to make sure that I am always including all the girls in our community. I have a special place in my heart for new Americans, and those who need amazing Girl Scout programming. I remember coming to this country and having an accent when I spoke English and how there were folks who pretended they didn’t understand me. We have to be generous of heart!

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?

I always remember my father’s sage advice: “Para atrás, ni para coger impulse”, “don’t look back not even to get momentum.” In life we need to look at adversity as opportunities to improve and excel.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?

I think being a good mother and a professional woman has been challenging. I think it can be done, but it requires have a great partner in life to help and a huge heart so that children know they are always "número uno."

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

If I could change one thing about my life I would find an extra 24 hours a day. That would give me enough time to do all the things that I want to do and also the things I need to do.

What was your childhood ambition?

I wanted to be a teacher growing up, I would line up all my dolls and teach them about how to make cafecito cubano.

Tell us about three people that you admire?

I admire my parents who left their homeland to give me a better future, it took a lot of courage because they love their island.

I admire the young Girl Scouts I meet in my job and the great ambition they have to make the world a better place, they inspire me to work harder and do better.

I admire Juliette Gordon Low, who in 1912 started the Girl Scout Movement. Back then girls were not allowed to camp, and play outside, women didn’t even have the right to vote, and she was a pioneer in starting an organization that inpires us to be leaders.

A modern inspiration to me is Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. She is amazing, coming from a humble background, working so hard, and being an advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. She inspires me too.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?

Lunch. Breakfast I am always communting, and dinner I want to be home with my family.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?

I think the biggest sacrifice was to not always think of myself first. Now that my children are older I am learning how to zumba and take more time to be healthy.

What is your favorite quote?

“Caminante no hay camino, se hace camino al andar.” By Antonio Machado.

We all need to walk forward and as we walk we will make our way.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?

Yes, you have to have self confidence that you will preserver and that other will appreciate your perspective.

Biggest mistake made?

I once skipped lunch and ate a whole box of Girl Scout Thin Mints, my stomach ached for days. Seriously, my biggest mistake is perhaps trying to do it all. I have a family that I love, and I am passionate about my career. It is a mistake to think that it is all my responsibility. I have learned over the years to share parenting with my husband, and at work to surround myself with the right people—the brightest and the best. I have confidence in their ability to do their part, which makes my work that much easier.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?

Yes, I think an innovator is someone who listens to others and take the best ideas and helps make them a reality.

About the Company

GSCNC is the area's preeminent leadership organization for girls, serving 90,000 members, 62,000 girls ages 5-17. The council serves the Greater Washington Region, which includes the District of Columbia and 25 counties in Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. For the third year in a row, over 200 girls achieved the Gold Award, the highest award earned in Girl Scouting. More than 1,400 Council-sponsored programs and experiential activities are provided to thousands of girls and families. During the 2010 summer camp season, 4,200 girls attended our four sleep-away camps, and an additional 11,500 girls participated in summer day and evening camps. Over 33,000 Girl Scouts participated in weekend camping opportunities on GSCNC campsites. We operate eight camp properties: Aquasco, Brighton Woods and Winona in Maryland; Coles Trip, Crowell, May Flather and Potomac Woods in Virginia; and White Rock in West Virginia. We provide over $500,000 in financial assistance to girls and adults to participate in programs, attend camp, start troops and purchase uniforms. We have 112 talented, full-time employees, with an operating budget of $16 million. We are headquartered in Washington, DC, with offices in Frederick and Waldorf, Maryland; Leesburg, Lorton and Manassas, Virginia; and Martinsburg, West Virginia. We build girls of character, courage and confidence who make the world a better place.

Juan Pablo Mendez > www.roidna.com

2011-08-26T02:02:00.001-04:00

Juan Pablo Mendez, Optimization / QA Expert, ROI DNA

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?

Generally speaking, being raised by Colombian parents and traveling to Colombia every year to visit family has had an enormous impact on my perspective and identity—and, by extension, on everything I do (including work).

But I can also point to more literal ways that my Latin American background has influenced my work life. For example, it recently enabled me to travel to Colombia to help introduce PC Tools’ performance and security software as it makes its way into the Colombian market.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?

One step at a time, with a positive outlook, and doing my best. That seems like the most reasonable approach to me. I have my mom to thank for having that mentality.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?

My biggest challenge has probably involved conquering time. Those who know me know that I like taking my time when I do things, and ‘fitting everything in’ is an ongoing challenge. I was probably much better suited for life in the 1920’s…

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

I would stop time. Realistically, though, I would be more organized so that I could better accomplish the variety of things that I find fulfilling—e.g., traveling, spending time with family and friends, creating art, learning new skills, etc.

What was your childhood ambition?

It was probably to somehow bring about world peace. I also thought it would be cool to be an inventor and a professional soccer player.

Tell us about three people that you admire?

My mom. She has been and continues to be my primary role model in life, and she’s an extraordinary person. I’ll leave it at that because some things just can’t be adequately expressed in a short paragraph. Aside from my mom, the list of people I admire is extensive and diverse.

I recently read Frederick Douglass’s autobiography, so he comes to mind when thinking of people I admire. He overcame unimaginable hardships and became a powerfully influential voice for social equality.

Another person I admire is one of my best friends from college. He’s one of the smartest people I know and his consideration for others is remarkable. It’s apparent not only in his daily interactions but also in larger ways. For instance, as a young professional, he donated the vast majority of his earnings to charity, and I’m probably one of the very few people who know that.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?

Probably lunch. I’m not much of a morning person, and I generally like to enjoy evenings with friends and family.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?

I wouldn’t consider myself a “business success,” but I did make a big sacrifice when I decided to come out to California for college. I’ve since stayed on the west coast, and being away from my family (who live in New Orleans) has definitely been one of the biggest sacrifices I’ve made.

What is your favorite quote?

I’m not one for superlatives, but here’s one I like: “Keep everything in moderation—even moderation.”

Is it difficult to be unconventional?

It can be. Many people find comfort in maintaining the status quo, and those who stray from it are often maligned. Authenticity is a quality I strive to achieve always and one that I admire in others. And if being authentic means being unconventional, I’m all for it—even if it seems difficult.

Biggest mistake made?

I don’t like to think of life in terms of mistakes made but, rather, lessons learned.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?

I certainly try to be an innovator. I think it’s important to question long-standing norms, and I also like to approach even the smallest details of life with originality and creativity. Life’s much more interesting that way.

About the Company

Founded in 2009, ROI DNA provides effective design, e-marketing, and web development solutions in order to comprehensively expand its clients’ web presence. Our clientele ranges from established brands like PC Tools to ambitious start-ups.

Strategy and Optimization are elemental to each and every ROI DNA relationship and affiliation. Think of them as fundamental, guiding factors that we bring to the structural material of your company. Bound together like a helix, they ensure optimal success for every service we provide.

We do our best work because we start at the very beginning, select the strongest elements and help them replicate into something bigger, better and stronger – a more powerful, fully evolved version of your business.

Alejandro Blanco > www.foxdeportes.com

2011-08-22T17:02:00.002-04:00

Alejandro Blanco, Sports Journalist, Anchor at FOX Deportes

Could you tell us a little about your role at FOX Deportes?

Of course! First off, Greetings and thank you for this honor and the opportunity to talk to you. FOX Deportes hired me at the beginning of 2011 to be the face of its network in the United States, initially as commentator on Premier League, Series A, and by participating in most of the studio programs. Currently I host “Fútbol Sin Códigos”, a debate show and I am the commentator for the Mexican soccer games.

What is your best attribute as a leader?

First and foremost I believe it is because I think of the public, our audience, and I try to connect with them and think like them, anticipating what they expect from us, thinking about what we can offer them with a growing sense of commitment and quality each time... I’d say it is that ongoing search for empathy with our public, who are our most valuable assets, and what’s important to the audience.

Does being Hispanic have any influential factor that you apply to your career?

Your roots definitely mark you; they’re an important indicators of your way of being and of your personality. In my case, it helps me tremendously to understand not only the American audience but the entire Hispanic audience living in the United States, and it helps me to strive for a rich blend of commentary that allows us to identify with both groups and seek to satisfy their needs in a global way.

When faced with adversity, ¿how do you decide to go on?

Well, in adversity there are always circumstances that sustain you and drive you to forge ahead. In my case, I find support in my friends, my family, but especially in all the feedback and the love that I get from the audience, which always encourages you to get up and go on, and find a way, each day, to be better for them. We owe them so much... we owe them everything! And that’s how we must see it.

What’s the greatest challenge you’ve ever faced?

Throughout my professional career and my everyday life there have been, and there will always be, new challenges and issues, so I can tell you that precisely a few years ago, one of the most significant challenges for me was moving to a market that was then still uncharted, leaving Mexico to live in Chicago, starting in a new market, leaving many things behind, but most of all, facing a new challenge, a huge challenge, which fortunately, with the support of my loved ones and my audience, became more and more bearable until I made it my own, one more episode and one more story in this journey.

If you could change just one thing in your life, what would it be?

I believe I wouldn’t change anything in particular, because when you decide to do something it’s because, at that moment, it’s what you wanted to do. Perhaps I would just seek to improve, always improve in every way, learn from my mistakes, always identify my areas of opportunities and dynamically seek, day by day, to be better, to be a better person to others and a better person for myself.

What did you aspire to when you were a teenager?

I always loved sports; I dreamt of going to games, of commentating them live, and of just being there. The truth is I was very fortunate, as I can truly tell you that I made it, and I am very lucky because so many of us have teenage dreams and very few of us can make them come true. So, besides being able to contribute with what I love the most, this allows me to be close to those fans, who are demanding and passionate seekers, much like I was many years ago. I understand them, I walk in their shoes.

Tell us who are the three leaders that you admire the most

In the world of sports, of course, someone who was a huge influence on me since I was a kid was Michael Jordan: his determination, his success, his leadership, his perseverance in never giving up, never being afraid of making a mistake and in turning his faults into the key of his success. Ghandi and Nelson Mandela, both of whom had an outstanding history of leadership.

For your business meetings, what’s best: breakfast, lunch or dinner?

None of them, I think; it always depends on the best time, the best place, and on trying to find a convenient time for everyone, to be mindful of other people’s time, and simply adapt. That’s one characteristic that we must all have and understand: the ability to adapt.

What sacrifices have you had to make in your personal life to be successful in your career?

Mainly, I’ve often had to be far away from my country, my family, my friends and loved ones, my customs, my food, my usual activities. However, as I mentioned before, the ability to adapt makes sacrifices much more tolerable, especially when you feel that they are worth it and that you are making them for much greater causes.

What is your favorite thought or saying?

Do whatever you have to do, but always do it well, do it better.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?

It is difficult; however, when you have so much feedback, both positive and negative, from the people who follow you and always care for you, it helps you with self-reflection, it helps you to seek your areas of opportunities and work at them, and thus you become exceptional not always for yourself but because of others, because of the people who surround you, your experiences and life events. Each and every one of us is unique.

What’s the most serious mistake you ever made?

I prefer to regard mistakes as lessons; day by day, in our work, we learn new things, we’re always learning. Actually, it would be a mistake to always remain the same and not evolve.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? If so, why?

I believe that the profession itself forces you to be innovative, to be more competitive, to try to give something more, a plus, an added value that will make a difference to the fans , that they will like and identify with, and yes, that definitely takes a great doses of daily innovation.

About the company

FOX Deportes is the No. 1 Hispanic sports brand in the U.S. FOX Deportes offers top-tier sports event programming, award-winning original programming and cutting-edge production values. It is the standard bearer of high-quality sports programming in the U.S. Spanish-language television marketplace.

Boasting more than 2,100 hours of live and exclusive programming, FOX Deportes has steadily increased its distribution and today lives in 6 million Hispanic households and reaches more than 18 million cable and satellite households across the U.S.

Jorge Möller > www.BBT.com

2011-07-08T18:24:00.000-04:00

Jorge Möller, Senior Vice President, Multicultural Markets Manager, BB&T Corporation

Being Hispanic… Does it have any influence on your business?

Absolutely, as I lead the Multicultural Strategy for BB&T, having the Hispanic perspective allows me to have a better understanding of issues and challenges of the Hispanic community. I feel proud to drive change everyday and get BB&T better prepared for the enormous demographic changes taking place in this country.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?

As an engineer, I learned early on to break down problems into small parts instead of trying to tackle the whole issue all at once. Nothing worthwhile comes easily or everyone would do it. Change is part of life. I choose to stay focus on my true values to be positive around adversity and see it as a challenge. I found that a healthy sense of humor always helps.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?

Having three young daughters, my biggest challenge is to making sure I do everything I can to help them grow up to be happy with themselves and their choices. They are part of the next generation of Hispanics growing up in this country. I hope I can get them as ready as I can to be on their own, make independent decisions and be positive role models for others to follow.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

Family is very important to us. Since our extended family is spread across three continents, my daughters don’t spend enough time with their grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. It would be fantastic if everyone could spend more time together.

What was your childhood ambition?

I wanted to be a rancher. My grandparents had a ranch and I loved getting up early in the morning to get on my horse and get the cattle.

Tell us about three people that you admire:

I admire people that have gone through tremendous adversity and made the best of it. Randy Pausch comes to mind for his love of life, his family and achieving your childhood dreams. There are also so many people at BB&T that do anything to help their clients; I admire their dedication and creativity to find the best possible solutions. More personally, I admire my wife Jennifer who does her best everyday to make our family better.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?

It depends on who is invited to the meeting and the objective. I like all three meals. I am always hungry.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?

Everything requires trade offs. I like to run between 20 and 30 miles per week, it takes time away from my family, but I sort things out in my mind while I am running. I am a better person for it. You have to balance all you do in life. One cannot train for a marathon without running.

What is your favorite quote?

"We may not be able to prepare the future for our children, but we can at least prepare our children for the future."

Is it difficult to be unconventional?

I don’t focus on being unconventional, but rather on being pragmatic, focused on facts and reality.

Biggest mistake made?

I see mistakes as part of everyone’s life experience. Not all decisions will be made without mistakes. To me the key is to learn from the mistakes and never be afraid.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?

I know that the business world is changing constantly. In that context, I have to be an innovator in my role with BB&T. We are changing our perception and understanding of the opportunity around the Hispanic segment in ways people did not think about it before. In order to make the appropriate changes and adapt the business to market realities you have to be creative.

About the Company

BB&T Corporation (NYSE: BBT) is one of the largest financial services holding companies in the U.S. with $157 billion in assets and market capitalization of $19.1 billion, as of March 31, 2011. Based in Winston-Salem, N.C., the company operates approximately 1,800 financial centers in 12 states and Washington, D.C., and offers a full range of consumer and commercial banking, securities brokerage, asset management, mortgage and insurance products and services. A Fortune 500 company, BB&T is consistently recognized for outstanding client satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates, the U.S. Small Business Administration, Greenwich Associates and others. More information about BB&T and its full line of products and services is available at www.BBT.com.

Michael Olguin > www.formulatin.com

2011-06-17T16:20:00.007-04:00

Michael A. Olguin, President, FORMULATIN

Being Hispanic? Does it have any Influence on your business?
Yes, my Hispanic heritage was the driving force behind creating FORMULATIN, which is a division within my general market public relations agency. My knowledge of the Hispanic public relations market, along with my understanding of what it is like to be deep-roots consumer (how we define a Hispanic who was generationally raised in the U.S., as an American, with deep Hispanic roots) allowed me to recognize the opportunity to develop a practice area completely focused on Hispanic PR. In addition, my heritage also gives me excellent relevance when it comes to doing business with brands interested in marketing to the Hispanic market.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
Given that marketing is not brain surgery, I never really look at the adversity I face as being life and death. Clients hire FORMULATIN because of our knowledge, experience, creativity and understanding of the Hispanic marketplace. When we face a challenge, we combine all of those aspects to provide a solution that will resonate with our target consumer. These marketing challenges are what fuel me on a daily basis.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
My biggest challenge is getting brands and chief marketing officers to recognize that the Hispanic marketplace is not only a large consumer base, but also one that has discretionary budget to spend, is educated, brand loyal and, most importantly, worth spending against. Too many Fortune 500 brands are still making half-hearted attempts to reach this consumer base and build lasting relationships. Hispanics are a very loyal target audience; if you market to them consistently, they will reward that commitment by supporting your brand.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I wish that my bilingual parents would have forced me and my seven brothers and sisters to speak Spanish, and that I would have been more diligent in my efforts to learn the language. Unfortunately, I grew up at a time when my parents thought speaking Spanish would not be as advantageous as solely speaking English. As a result, I have both of my kids studying Spanish since they were very young, as well as attending Spanish immersion classes during the summer months.

What was your childhood ambition?
I think like most young athletes, I wanted to play basketball professionally. However, it doesn’t take long to realize that the likelihood of that happening is very slim. I figured I would be a high school basketball coach—if you can’t do, then you teach!

Tell us about three people that you admire?
My parents were an inspiration to me and to all of my brothers and sisters because they had very little, yet they lived their lives like they had everything. They recognized the importance of family; they placed a huge importance on education; they really loved each other; and, most importantly, they were very proud of their heritage, which ultimately is the reason why my brothers and sisters are so close.

I also really admire my younger brother, John, who is not only one of the smartest people I’ve ever been around, but also my go-to resource when I need a gut-check on a major decision I need to make that is either personal or regarding business. He is also in PR, so he really can provide insight that is accurate, thoughtful and contrarian.

The third person I admire is my brother-in-law, Dave, who is a business consultant to me. He provides me with excellent business advice and insight, in particular when it comes to identifying what is necessary to make the difficult decisions.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
I’m really a morning person, so I would say I prefer to conduct meetings over breakfast; it’s when I’m most fresh and haven’t had any of the day’s activities start to weigh on my mind.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
When you run a business you sacrifice family time, because in many cases your business is like your baby. In order to be a national player within the public relations landscape, I made the decision long ago to only work with national clients. As a result, I travel extensively and work long hours. The upside is that this commitment has also yielded the kind of business success to provide more opportunities for me to spend time with my family.

What is your favorite quote?
“Plan your life like you’ll live forever and live your life like today is your last day.” – Author unknown

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Being unconventional for the sake of being unconventional is foolish in business; you have to have a reason for it, like for the purpose of creating a competitive advantage. If you are only doing being unconventional in order to be different, then you are risking success for reasons that don’t make sound business sense.

Biggest mistake made?
Waiting too long to make the philosophical and financial commitment to open a New York office. This decision, though later than expected, has paid off handsomely by adding outstanding talent and clients to our roster.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Absolutely. There are many programs within Formula/FORMULATIN that are very differentiated within in the PR industry. We have an outstanding measurement tool, a unique internal awards program and a variety of new ways at looking at PR. Our company-wide attitude is based upon doing things better than we’ve ever done before.

About Formulatin

Headquartered in New York City, FORMULATIN is a national public relations agency serving brands interested in connecting with Hispanic consumers. The FORMULATIN team is comprised of bilingual and bicultural members with a deep understanding of and appreciation for the Hispanic culture. Additionally, the team has a rich history representing clients in both the Hispanic and general markets, with a particular focus on consumer products.

As the sister agency of Formula, a leading public relations boutique with offices in New York, Los Angeles and San Diego, FORMULATIN leverages the firms longstanding history of representing clients in diverse categories including consumer, lifestyle, sports, entertainment, travel, business and technology.

In 2009 and 2010, the agency was recognized as the HPRA Sports Campaign of the Year winner for work done on behalf of Tecate. Additional experience includes brands such as Tequila Herradura, el Jimador, Bohemia, H&R Block, ESPN Deportes, Behr and NAPA AUTO PARTS.

Valeria Fernandez > www.chryslergroupllc.com

2011-06-02T18:30:00.000-04:00

Valeria Fernandes, Head, International Information Technology, Chrysler Group LLC,

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
It influences the way I conduct business. Our culture accepts changes more easily and is also teaches us to be agile. Without flexibility and agility in my home country, we would not survive.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
Being objective. Analyze the situation, the alternatives and the associated impacts.
And my mentors are very helpful - they always have the right word at the right moment.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
By far - the decision of leaving my home country.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
These are not empty words, I really mean it - I would not change a thing. I am today a reflection of the experiences I accumulated during my life.

What was your childhood ambition?
I wanted to travel the world.

Tell us about three people that you admire
My parents above all people. They thought me the principles of honesty and perseverance.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Lunch or dinner - I am not a morning person.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Many nights, holidays and weekends at work. But it was always worth it.

What is your favorite quote?
"Treat people exactly like you want to be treated" - it never fails

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
I cannot even imagine how it is to be conventional.

Biggest mistake made?
I should have pursued an advanced degree right after my undergraduate studies.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Innovation is an inherent part of our heritage - we are chameleons. Managing people and projects across different cultures requires constant adjustments, only possible through innovation.

About the Company:
Chrysler Group LLC, formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat S.p.A., produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Mopar and Fiat vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler Group’s culture of innovation, first established by Walter P. Chrysler in 1925, and Fiat’s complementary technology that dates back to its founding in 1899.

Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group’s product lineup features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300, Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Challenger and Ram 1500. Fiat contributes world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-size cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including environmentally friendly vehicles.

Rafael Gonzalez Montes de Oca > Train!

2011-05-11T16:13:00.002-04:00

Rafael González Montes de Oca, CEO, Train!

Being Hispanic? Does it have any Influence on your business?
Being Hispanic has meant a lot, especially when working as a public events lecturer in the United States. I have found that Hispanic professionals react favorably with the cultural queues we express during our workshops and identify with the cultural nuances when we Hispanics interact. The Latino audience is very emotional and it shows; emotion begets creativity, which links us together. This has allowed me to reassess my identity as a Hispanic businesses person.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
If I may paraphrase the question: The best way to deal with adversity has always been deciding how to proceed. When times are difficult, questions have been on the premises of success: what not to do, what to do differently and what new action to try, but not moving ahead has always been out of the question. The basis of this strength to continue has been the conviction that there is a causal relationship between effort, appropriate action, and results. Although these are sometimes slow in coming.

What is the Biggest Challenge you have faced ?
To keep my project going when it seemed improbable. I respond to productive ideas, which involves a pattern of life, vocation and meaning. Therefore, at times when the future does not look clear, I make an even greater effort: first, to keep faith in that dream and secondly, to gather the necessary energy to make it a successful project.

If You Could change one thing about your life, What Would It Be?
It took me a while to learn to temper my optimism. We all need to continue to invest in optimism, but in perspective. I realized that I have gone through difficult times that I could have avoided had I learned to combine optimism with a good dose of caution.

What Was your childhood ambition?
To be an inventor. I dreamt of having a workshop full of projects, machines, prototypes and tools. Later, I expanded my dream, but oriented it to the ideal of creating new things. I did not abandon this ambition. Today, I have a closet full of papers, paintings and all kinds of tools and accessories to enjoy with my children. My eyes light up every time my children have a show-and-tell school project.

Tell us about three people that you admire
Of public to private:

Leonardo Da Vinci, for his ingenuity, creativity, intellectual curiosity and for his higher understanding of things.

Salvador Abascal Carranza, a Mexican political philosopher and rare humanist who is honest, ethical, intelligent, consistent and complete bohemian.

Jesus Montes de Oca, my grandfather, an incredible man, deeply passionate about life, adventure and good humor. Without a doubt, my hero.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Business meals allow warmth and informality--to return to the office to follow up and close deals.

What Sacrifices on your personal life did you Have to make in order to Become a business success?
The traditional, I suppose, to leave home before dawn to catch a flight, spend a weekend alone in a distant city; many Saturdays and some Sundays separated from family activities. Nevertheless, this does not compare with the satisfaction that I finally succeeded in my efforts, thanks in part, to my sacrifices.

What is your favorite quote?
Many of my favorite quotes are from Einstein. Choose one: "There are two ways to live: as though nothing is a miracle, or as if everything is."

Is it Difficult to Be unconventional?
For me, it is much harder to keep within the mainstream. However, it is hard to be unconventional, which we all are, at least occasionally and accidentally. The art consists in keeping heads held high with honor. And in this as in any other art, practice makes perfect.

Biggest mistake made?
Combining over-optimism with a lack of foresight, which is a dangerous mix.

Do you Consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Yes. I love to observe outcomes, whether it be topics for lectures, journalistic collaborations, teaching illustrations, marketing strategies, posters advertising, songs, pictures, parties, children's stories and poems.

About the Company
Train! specializes in organizational learning that improves the performance of individuals and businesses by delivering high-impact seminars, workshops and conferences in the U.S. and Mexico. We are experts in negotiation and performance skills development training, combination of memorable content and a flexible teaching style. For media and training inquiries, contact Lucia Matthews at lucia@dialogo.us.

Vicente Navarro > www.soccer.com

2011-03-25T10:05:00.000-04:00

Vicente Navarro, Director of Hispanic Marketing, Sports Endeavors.

Being Hispanic.Does it have any influence on your business?
I am a Spaniard (born and raised in Alicante, Spain), however, relate well and understand the Hispanic community as we share similar cultures, customs and beliefs.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
Persistence and perseverance are essential to success.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
On a personal level, losing a loved one is extremely difficult. From a professional perspective, I try to always focus on the facts rather than the emotions.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
To be more organized.

What was your childhood ambition?
Be loved by family and friends

Tell us about three people that you admire?
I admire my both my parents for their limitless love and dedication, my wife and children for their unconditional support and on-going motivation.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
All three work for me as long as they are productive.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Success is a journey, I’m not there yet. I have big aspirations. Travel is a necessary evil which does have an impact on my personal life.

What is your favorite quote?
Things may come to those who wait….but only the things left by those who hustle. ~Abraham Lincoln

Biggest mistake made?
There are many but you learn and grow from them all.

Do you consider yourself an innovator?
No, I focus on the basics which starts with building strong relationships and delivering on your commitments.

About Eurosport:
Founded in 1984, Sports Endeavors, Inc., better known as Eurosport/SOCCER.COM, is the world's leading authentic grassroots soccer company. SOCCER.COM has more than two million visitors per month, and the Eurosport catalog has the largest distribution of any U.S. soccer publication. Sports Endeavors also operates leading online retail sites for lacrosse and rugby: http://www.lacrosse.com/ and http://www.worldrugbyshop.com/.
http://www.soccer.com/

Stephen Zack > www.bsfllp.com

2011-03-14T13:04:00.000-04:00

Stephen Zack, Administrative Partner at Boies, Schiller & Flexner LLP; First Hispanic President of the American Bar Association.

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
It reminds me, as a Hispanic lawyer, how important it is that the legal profession expand its ranks amongst Hispanics in order to reflect the society we serve. Hispanics now make up more than 15% of U.S. society but less than 5% of all U.S. lawyers. America's global reputation is as a draw for newcomers and a melting pot: its lawyers should demonstrate this. A diverse profession keeps the justice system connected to the people.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
It’s not really in my DNA to take no for an answer. I also believe in the Chinese adage, “Never waste a crisis.” I view crisis as an opportunity to learn.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
The night in my life, nearly 50 years ago, when I was detained by the G2 (the Cuban equivalent of the KGB) as my family tried to flee the country. It left its mark on me forever. I didn’t know if I would go free, or ever see the rest of my family again. That feeling of helplessness and being wronged drove an interest in justice that led me to become a lawyer.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
Not a thing. Life is about moving forward, not looking back, and life has been full of great opportunities and moments.

What was your childhood ambition?
From the beginning I always wanted to be a lawyer.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
My grandfather, who showed tremendous courage in fleeing his country for the freedom of America

My mother, who instilled in me my values

My former client, Al Gore, who refused-no matter what happened in the counts during the Bush v. Gore litigation-to allow anyone on his legal team to say anything that denigrated the American system of justice.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Lunch: I’m not a morning person and after the intensity of the work day, I enjoy spending time relaxing with family and friends.

What sacrifices in your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Busy lawyers work a lot, and when I was younger and building the practice, that was even more true. Besides business obligations, there were a lot of community and public service demands. I’m glad now I’m getting to spend a lot more time with my adult children and their children. But also, note my favorite quote.

What is your favorite quote?
Choose a job you love, and you’ll never have to work a day in your life. My dad said that and I took his advice.

I will add that these days I also think a lot about the four words carved in marble above the entrance to the United States Supreme Court, “Equal Justice Under Law.” Ensuring those words are more than a promise is behind a lot of the ABA’s work.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Change is rarely made by conventional people.

Biggest mistake made?
Like all of us, as you get older you get better at listening to and taking the advice of others. I’m glad that acquired skill is one of the gifts of time.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
I hope I am. True innovators drive others to do the extraordinary and to think of new ways to get things done.

About the Company
Boies, Schiller & Flexner LLP, founded in 1997, has become one of the nation's premier law firms. Today, with over 250 lawyers practicing in offices across the country, we regularly serve as lead counsel in the most significant and highest profile disputes in the world. While best known for landmark cases such as United States v. Microsoft; Bush v. Gore; Perry v. Schwarzenegger; Lloyds of London vs. World Trade Center; and American Express vs. Visa, we represent some of the largest and most sophisticated organizations in the world when the results matter most. We have been described by The Wall Street Journal as a "national litigation power house" and by the National Law Journal as "unafraid to venture into controversial" and "high risk" matters.

And we are just getting started.

The talent of our partnership is matched by the skill and diversity of our associates. Likewise, our corporate practice brings our standard of excellence to bear in negotiating complex and sophisticated transactions. For that reason, the American Lawyer noted that the firm has assembled "a team of seasoned attorneys to form one of America's most successful and sought-after law firms for cases that matter."

Our clients know and rely on our talent, standard of excellence, relentlessness, creativity, and track record of success in a wide variety of practice areas and industries, for both plaintiffs and defendants. We have successfully defended and brought actions on behalf of our clients in some of their most high-stakes litigation.

Leila Cobo > www.leilacobo.com

2011-02-17T11:04:00.000-05:00

Leila Cobo, Executive Editor for Latin Content and Programming, Billboard; expert in Latin music and culture and Writer.

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
More than being Hispanic, understanding the Hispanic marketplace, culture and mindset are essential to my job and to Billboard’s Latin business in general. Of course, as a Colombian native—born and raised—this is my culture. You can’t serve a constituency that you don’t understand, and perhaps most important, that you don’t respect.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I try not to dwell on the past. It’s been a tough lesson to learn! But I try to never look back. Self-critique is a wonderful thing, but dwelling on mistakes that can no longer be corrected seriously hampers progress. It’s like playing tennis. You go point by point. The minute you dwell on the previous point, you’re dead.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
My biggest challenge is ongoing. It’s convincing the mainstream that Latinos or Hispanics are part of that mainstream. We are not a niche. We are not a quota. We are part of the fabric of this country, and anyone who fails to realize this is not recognizing the reality of this country and is missing out on tremendous business opportunities. This doesn’t mean hitting anyone over the head with everything Latin. But sometimes, I’ll be watching TV series that are allegedly set in Miami or New York or Los Angeles, to give an example, and there isn’t’ a single Latin in there! And I have to wonder, do the people that write these scripts live in these cities? Do they ever go out and walk around and look and the people that surround them? You cannot possibly live in this country and fail to see that Hispanics are as much a part of it as African Americans or Asians, or Italian Americans or any other ethnic group you can think of.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
Work less and travel more.

What was your childhood ambition?
To be a Broadway star!

Tell us about three people that you admire?
-My father, who died a little over 10 years ago, was a surgeon but was also the head of a non profit organization and a visionary. He founded the school of medicine in Cali, my hometown, the psychiatric hospital and fought to incorporate residencies into the medical program, going against the establishment at the time. Most important, he was a brilliant, curious and very open minded man. He was a trailblazer and he made a positive difference in many people’s lives.

-Freddy Mercury: I never met the man, but to me he was truly the complete artist: Great singer, great composer, great showman and such a musician. Not a single facet was compromised.

-Stephen King: Prolific and with an endless supply of imagination.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Lunch

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
I could go on and on about this, but first and foremost, I’ll say I’m very blessed to have a job that allows me to work from home and achieve great balance between family and work. I’m married to a recording artist, so we’re both mutually respectful of our crazy schedules and unorthodox obligations. But if anything, I’ve made professional sacrifices for family. When I had my first child 14 years ago, I worked in the Los Angeles Times, and they declined to allow me to work even a couple of days from home. I left for a job that allowed me greater flexibility. Today, the mentality is quite different and working from home is so common. I have to say that companies that do not appreciate or respect the necessity of balancing family and work—particularly when it’s so easy to telecommute—are missing the boat. Whenever I met with resistance to this concept, I moved on. If you balance things out, if you are organized in your work and if you deliver, it IS possible to have your cake and eat it too, and in the process, share it with everybody else. Having a balanced life allows you to be so much more productive in your work. Everyone benefits.

What is your favorite quote?
At this moment it is: The positive always defeats the negative.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
It’s difficult to be a woman and be forceful and direct. As we’ve all seen time and time again, at all levels and in all disciplines: if a man is forceful, he is strong, or a leader. If a woman is forceful, she is a b... In my case, it’s very important to me to be honest and upfront. This is at the core of my job and being straightforward and sticking to my word has been a crucial element in establishing and maintaining relationships for many years.

Biggest mistake made?
Trusting liars.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
More than an innovator I consider myself a very passionate advocate. The innovation is a result of that. With Latin media and content, we really are creating as we go, and it’s about defending your position and your ideals. My job is not just a job. Never. It is something I feel and believe in very, very deeply. And I like to think that at the end of the day, I’ve made a difference for my company, and—perhaps more important—that I’ve made a difference in the lives of the artists I cover.

About Billboard
Now in its 116th year, Billboard is the world’s premier music brand consisting of Billboard magazine, Billboard Events and Billboard.com—the online destination of choice for millions of music fans. The Billboard brand is built on its exclusive charts and unrivaled reporting on the latest news, issues and trends across all genres of music.

Billboard is owned by Prometheus Global Media, a diversified company with leading assets in the media and entertainment arenas, including: Music (Billboard and its related conferences and events, including The Billboard Latin Music Awards), Entertainment (The Hollywood Reporter, Backstage, ShoWest, ShowEast, Cineasia, and Cinema Expo International); and Advertising & Marketing (Adweek, Mediaweek, Brandweek, Adweek Conferences and The CLIO Awards).

Billboard Latin Music Conference & Awards will take place April 26 – 28, 2011 at Miami’s Eden Rock Renaissance.

Leila Cobo's picture by photographer Claudia Calle.

Sonia Marie De Léon de Vega > www.scorchestra.org

2011-02-09T13:34:00.000-05:00

Being Hispanic - Does it have any influence on your business?
It means everything to my business. It influenced the founding ofthis very organization.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
Adversity has always been present and it has always been the fuel that feeds me. I do not let it discourage me ever. The more I was told that classical music is not something Latinos understand the more determined I was to give them access and exposure to this art form.

What is the biggest challenge your business has faced?
The biggest challenge has been the economic downturn, when that happened all businesses suffered and most especially non-profit organizations. People have less money to give to a cause.

If you could change one thing about your business, what would it be?
For the organization, I would take a few months just to concentrate on building infrastructure. As far as the symphony and classical music business I would change the notion that classical music in not for people of color. Presently, there are very few minorities in any symphony orchestra in the nation. I would like to see that change. I would like the orchestras to look more like the cities and communities they serve.

What was your childhood ambition?
As far as I could remember, it was always to be a classical musician. I started so young that I feel I have always been a musician.

Tell us about three entrepreneurs that you admire?
I greatly admire Michael Kaiser the president of the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. He is very passionate about helping other arts organizations and arts organizations of color. He started a Capacity Building program that we have participated in for the last 5 years and I am fortunate to have him as my mentor.

This morning I discovered a produce store in a neighboring community that is mostly Latino. They sell organic produce and locally grown produce as well as organic meats. The owner decided to put his business in the community where he grew up to give back to the community. I greatly admire any entrepreneur who has a desire to give back to their community.

For business meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
They are all good! However, I do prefer lunch and dinner. Dinner is the best for a nice long meeting.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
I had to sacrifice a lot and still do everyday to keep this organization going and growing. Many days I feel as if there are not enough hours in a day to work. Sometimes I have to remind myself to have a personal life! It is a struggle, but absolutely necessary.

What is your favorite quote?
A Chinese proverb: ‘Those who say it cannot be done, should not interrupt those doing it.”

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
It is a little difficult, but a lot of fun!

Biggest mistake made?
Maybe it is a good thing that I cannot think of one. One day though I may look back and say I should have taken more vacations.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Yes, I am an innovator. I am one of the first women to be a conductor. I was studying to be a conductor when no other woman was conducting a symphony. At the time I started there were twowomenconducting opera. I was told at a conducting workshop where I was the only woman amongst 40 men to give up conducting because “a woman would never be accepted conducting a symphony orchestra in our lifetime”. I have now proven that wrong. Everything is possible.

About the Company:

Sonia Marie De Léon de Vega is the founder, music director and conductor of the Santa Cecilia Orchestra. Maestra De Léon de Vega is also celebrated in education circles for creating the Discovering Music Program, which has been changing the lives of thousands of Latino youth through the power of music education for over 18 years. Maestra De Léon de Vega has expressed her deep commitment to the Latino community, as well as advocating for music education and encouraging young musicians to pursue their talents.

Founded in 1992 Santa Cecilia Orchestra (SCO), has made a commitment to share the beauty and inspiration of classical music with Southern California audiences, giving special focus to Latino communities. In fact, SCO is the only orchestra in the nation with a specific mission to take classical music to the Latino community. The Santa Cecilia Orchestra has a long history of promoting the talent of Mexico and other Latino composers. On May 22, 2011, SCO will play México Sinfónico! For more information about Sonia, SCO and the concerts, contact Richie Matthews of DIÁLOGO at Richie@dialogo.us.

Yanina Fajar > www.tango-fire.com

2011-02-03T10:50:00.002-05:00

Yanina Fajar, Director of Choreography, The Tango Fire Company.

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
Being Argentine has many influences on my profession because the Tango was born in my country, I understand the whole spectrum of Tango from the inside, which enables me to transmit it.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I believe that in life everything happens because of a certain reason and the obstacles we have in the way serve us as learning and strengthen us for the next one. In the difficult moments I allow my faith to pull me through, and it never fails me.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
I have had a lot of them, but the biggest one was to decide to go far away from my family and home, so I could concentrate on my aims, I believe that we face a bigger challenge every day with ourselves and that's what life is for.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I wouldn't change anything , all the things I’ve lived were necessary for me being the women I'm today.

What was your childhood ambition?
Since I was a child my dream was to dance in the most important theatres in the world then when I was a teenager to have my own Dance Studio. Nowadays at 33 years old I have my own Studio in Buenos Aires for developing a new generation of dancers and I'm very happy because I’ve danced in the best theatres all around the world, so I have fulfilled all my childhood dreams.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
I admire all the people who have strong willpower to make the daily effort to be a better human being, but If I have to choose 3 people, I could mention:

First place to my mother Maria, I admire her aptitude to give love to everybody and the strength to make the family improve and to keep us close in adversity. Nowadays she's no longer with us but she left me her legacy for the rest of my life.

Second place to my life partner Gerardo because of his life value and the love, respect and discipline he has in his profession as musician, for me he is a great motivator.

Third place to Mother Teresa, because of the magnitude of her love and her whole work.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
I prefer breakfast for meetings; lunch and dinner are for family and friends.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
The dancers’ career demands a big sacrifice from childhood because of the daily discipline that it needs. Though the happiness this profession provokes in me is worth any sacrifice I have to make. If I have to mention a sacrifice the biggest one is to be far away from family and friends for long periods of time.

What is your favorite quote?
Satisfaction lies in the effort, not in the attainment, full effort is full victory. Mahatma Gandhi

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
I feel myself as conventional. But I'm conscious that my reality is very different than other peoples.

Biggest mistake made?
I have committed many mistakes in my life but never one big enough that couldn't be repaired. I believe that the important thing is to take life as a school where we come to learn on mistakes and to have the opportunity to correct them.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Yes, because I begun a new way to work in Tango group choreographies, I incorporate figures from other Dance Styles enriching the Tango from a new point of view.

About the Company
The Tango Fire Company was created in 2005, all the artists are from Argentina. There are ten dancers, four musicians and a singer.
It is a Company with a high level of artistic excellence, consisting of the best professionals and it is one of the most successful companies in the world. I’m very happy to be the Choreography Director and proud to work with these artists.
www.tango-fire.com

Isabel Villegas > www.jackmorton.com

2011-01-27T13:43:00.002-05:00

Isabel Villegas, Director, Jack Morton Latino

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
Absolutely, it certainly helps that I can relate to the work I do on a daily basis for our clients. I “live” the experience.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
My faith in God keeps me centered whether its personal or professional. My parents have really been there at the best & at the worst of times. Their love & God’s guidance is what keeps me moving.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
A few years ago I made the decision to leave my family and take on a new professional role in Los Angeles. It was a great experience, but my path lead me back to home to Chicago. My hometown is a wonderful city with a variety of growing communities & strong hub for the business world – Just ask Vince Vaughn!

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I’ve spent some time living abroad in Italy. If I could I would have spent more time living in Europe and experiencing different cultures & people. The world is too global for anyone with the opportunity to live abroad not to do so, even if it is for short amount of time. I learned to appreciate the smallest moments & enjoy my surroundings – things that are easily lost in the everyday shuffle of life in the US.

What was your childhood ambition?
Long before Shakira, I wanted to be a singer and be the first cross over! I can’t sing, but loved the idea of performing in both my native languages.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
My father is an amazing man who always finds a way to see the best in every situation or person & the one who encouraged both my sister & I and told us that being female & Latina should never be an excuse to not succeed, that above all we were people & our success is measured by what we do & how we treat people.

My Cuban maternal grandmother was the heart & soul of our family for many years. My earliest memories are of her and as her namesake I hope to continue in her legacy to influence others in a positive way.

The third is a man well beyond his time, an amazing scientist, artist, and influencer – Leonardo DaVinci

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Brunch! Dinner is for family & friends

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Creating memories with family & friends, something I’ve learned to change after living in Italy & realizing how quickly time passes.

What is your favorite quote?
I have two:
“La Vita E Bella” (Italian)….”Life is Beautiful”

“Nunca desistas de un sueño. Sólo trata de ver las señales que te lleven a él” -- Paulo Coelho “Never stop reaching for your dream. Try to follow all the signs that lead you to it”

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
No, I guess I don’t see myself as unconventional. As a Latina from Chicago from a Cuban mother & Mexican father, it’s easy to say that “unconventional” was always the norm at my house & well embraced. I consider myself “unique”!

Biggest mistake made?
No mistake thus far has been big enough for me to not have a avenue to change course…I consider them lessons learned.

About the Company
Jack Morton Worldwide is a global brand experience agency. We create experiences that strengthen relationships between brands and the people who matter most to them—thereby helping our clients become talked-about experience brands. Rated among the top marketing service agencies worldwide, we integrate live and online experiences, digital and social media, and branded 3D environments that engage and inspire consumers, business partners and employees. Jack Morton has a staff of 500 employees in the US, Europe and Asia-Pacific that drive our idea-led agency culture and is part of the Interpublic Group of Companies, Inc. (NYSE: IPG). For more information, go to http://www.jackmorton.com/.

Eduardo Obregón Pagán, Ph.D. > www.pbs.org/opb/historydetectives/

2011-01-13T15:29:00.000-05:00

Eduardo Obregón Pagán, Bob Stump Endowed Professor of History, New College, Arizona State University.

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
It certainly does influence what I do, in the kinds of topics that I research and the kinds of stories that I find most interesting to tell about.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I really have to give all the credit to my family. They keep me going. I look into the faces of my children and find the strength to keep going when I feel like giving up. My parents and my wife have always been my strongest supporters, too.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
There was a time in my life when I was living far from home, that I lost my job and went through a divorce within a matter of months. I pretty much hit rock bottom. I had no idea where I was going to live or how I was going to feed myself. It was a very lonely and difficult time.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I think it would be that I listened to my parents and teachers as a young man and got serious about my education sooner in life. I didn't appreciate at the time that a good education is a good foundation for the future.

What was your childhood ambition?
To play professional football with the Green Bay Packers. I didn't actually have the talent to play professional ball, but I sure could dream!

Tell us about three people that you admire?
I am blessed with good parents. As a parent now, myself, I am amazed by the choices they made in their lives that allowed their children to have opportunities that they didn't have. I try to stay true to what they taught me in words and by example, and pass that on to my own children. And I admire my wife, Ruth. She is truly an amazing woman.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Lonche. Dinner is family time.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
When I decided to get serious about my education I had to then decide between hanging out with my buddies or investing my time and energy in my studies. I had to approach my education like it was a full-time job and let nothing get in the way of my educational goals.

What is your favorite quote?
“The secret to success is constancy to purpose.” –Benjamin Disraeli

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
I don't think so. In a lot of ways growing up Latino in the United States makes you unconventional by default, and at some point you come to the realization that it is saner to embrace who you are than trying to always be what someone else thinks you should be.

Biggest mistake made?
In general, that I didn't fully appreciate and listen to the good advice that my parents gave me. As I alluded to above, I played around far too much in school when I was younger. Sure, I had some great times with my friends, but I also wasted a lot of the time that I could have been using to invest in my future and also my children's future. When I finally took responsibility for my own education, I had to make up for a lot of lost time. I did it, in the end, but my choices early in life had also made it much harder on me later in life than what it needed to be.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
There are many I admire who I consider true innovators, and I don't think I'm quite in their league. But I absolutely believe that it is important to develop your own unique talents, perspective, and voice.

About Eduardo:
History Detectives is a summer series on PBS that follows the show's hosts as they seek to solve historical mysteries. I received my Ph.D. in history from Princeton University and I am the Bob Stump Endowed Professor of History at Arizona State University.
www.pbs.org/opb/historydetectives/
www.asu.edu

James R. Cotto > www.morganstanley.com/fa/cottoandpadovani

2010-12-15T15:43:00.001-05:00

James R. Cotto , Senior Vice President - Wealth Advisor, Corporate Client Group Director Cotto & Padovani Wealth Strategies Group, Morgan Stanley -Smith Barney Global Wealth Management.

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
Yes it certainly does. A major part of our Wealth Advisory practice is dedicated to advising the Latin community concerning financial matters. Every month from now till 2015 an estimated 50,000 Latinos are turning 18 years old*. This means the work force of Latinos is growing substantially and I believe there is an education process that needs to occur. I am committed to the educational process in hopes of elevating awareness for our people.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
My personal mission statement, that I live by every day, is to provide for my family, give my clients the best advice possible, perform good acts of service and kindness, and failure is not an option.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
When my daughter Lucy was born she was born with a cleft palate and an undeveloped chin. This syndrome is called Pierre Robin. She was on an oxygen monitor for 6 months. Sometimes these events tear families apart; however it only made our bond stronger. They say tough times do not create character, they reveal it. I am very proud of my family and how they dealt with this unfortunate occurrence. By the way, she is perfect now!

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I enjoy my life everyday. I am very blessed and I wouldn't change my life at all. I do wish I was taller though!

What was your childhood ambition?
I wanted to be a pediatrician but then I realized that the sight of blood made me queasy.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
My father fought in two world wars and was one of the manliest men I knew. That being said, he was never afraid to show his family affection and compassion. Throughout his life, he also was committed to self improvement, which I would like to think is a quality I have as well.

Ronald Regan for winning the cold war without firing one bullet.

My wife for installing in our children the qualities of honesty, compassion for the less fortunate, and continuously striving to be the best they can be.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
I would prefer breakfast or lunch. I try to keep dinner time for my family.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
The biggest sacrifice has been made by my family. Early in my career I didn't have the freedom to pick and choose my work schedule. Although I have traveled throughout the country advising individuals and businesses concerning their financial matters, I have been fortunate for very rarely missing my children's life events.

What is your favorite quote?
"The greatest thing about man is his ability to transcend himself, his ancestry, and his environment and to become what he dreams of being" Tully C. Knowles

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Not at all. I believe one needs to be unconventional to separate oneself from one’s peers and the competition. Unlike in the past, I feel that the American society has become one that embraces each others differences.

Biggest mistake made?
Giving in to my fear and not having the courage to live a passionate life has always been my biggest mistake. I believe, as Thoreau said, "that the mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation, and go to the grave with the song still in them."

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Absolutely. I believe that you "don't go where the path may lead you, go instead where there is not a path and leave a trail."
Over the course of my career I have been acknowledged as a pioneer in several areas as it pertains to a creative approach to advising people concerning their wealth.

About the Company:
I am a Financial Advisor, Senior Vice President and Corporate Client Group Director at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. I am a Managing Partner in a Wealth Advisory practice called The Cotto & Padovani Wealth Strategies Group. We advise Business Owners, Individuals, Corporations and Not For Profits on the creation, protection, management, and the transitioning of their wealth.
www.morganstanley.com/fa/cottoandpadovani

*The Pew Research Center

Isabel Gonzalez Whitaker > www.InStyle.com

2010-11-05T15:03:00.002-04:00

Isabel Gonzalez Whitaker, Senior Editor, InStyle

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
While adversity in life, in work, or in a project, may be difficult, I try to always reframe any obstacle to be a “challenge” instead. When you look at adversity as a challenge it becomes something that innately possesses hope and has potential for positivity. And challenges can be fun and can ignite a tremendous sense of creativity.

What was your childhood ambition?
It was to be a marine biologist! I spent a lot of time in Miami and always loved being around the ocean.

Tell us about a person that you admire
Ralph de la Vega, CEO of AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets, is an inspiration for the immense challenges he faced growing up and the success he has achieved—as well as how much time and energy he gives back to many communities. Likewise, my mother, Sara Gonzalez, who also overcame tremendous obstacles on her path to success and for all the lives she positively touched as an advocate for Hispanic rights.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Breakfast or lunch. Dinners I try to reserve for family.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Early on, I gave up a lot of time spent with my family and even moved away from them in order to try to forge a path in this competitive industry. In a way though, I think when you are young (and you don’t need a lot of sleep) it’s the perfect time to do this.

About InStyle
Launched in June 1994 by Time Inc., InStyle is one of the world's premier media brands in celebrity, style, fashion, beauty and beyond. InStyle takes a uniquely fun and inviting attitude toward style in all its forms. The InStyle portfolio includes the flagship magazine, which reaches an audience of 10.9 million readers each month, InStyle.com, special issues, books and 17 international editions.
http://www.instyle.com/

Daisy Auger-Domínguez > www.TimeWarner.com

2010-10-28T14:25:00.002-04:00

Daisy Auger-Domínguez, Managing Director, Executive Search Initiatives Worldwide Recruitment & Executive Search, Time Warner Inc.

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
I was raised in the Dominican Republic. My parents are of Puerto Rican and Dominican descent. My family broadly instilled in me a sense of pride and privilege in being Latina/Hispanic and I have incorporated that awareness – the importance of embracing your individual diversity – into my moral and professional code of conduct. I strongly believe who I am as an individual and my life experiences, in addition to my professional skills, are a great asset to my company. In turn, I look for candidates who have a strong sense of self and who are empowered by their individuality in addition to possessing the core job requirements.

I believe companies have compelling business reasons to foster diversity, to ensure a culture of understanding and mutual respect, and to promote the inclusion of diverse employees. Corporate leaders are facing a broad range of issues, including the important challenge to manage people globally, remotely and cross-culturally. Therefore, companies need leaders with diverse experiences and backgrounds to meet these challenges. My mission is to position such leaders within my organization.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I am wired to be persistent. I also come from a heritage of strong women; the kind that is stubbornly independent, crafty, fiercely protective, and powerfully resilient. I was always taught to find “another way” when told “no”.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
In my career at Moody’s, I reinvented myself on four occasions. I began my career as a credit risk analyst, moved on to manage a corporate foundation, then built and developed a global diversity and inclusion function followed by managing a domestic talent acquisition function. Each time I needed to learn new disciplines, fine-tune my personal brand, expand my networks and hone new skills.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I would have more time to spend with my family and loved ones.

What was your childhood ambition?
To save the world.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
I tend to think in pluralities, so please indulge me as these are the people that most inspire me:

- Working mothers: who run households, build and rebuild their lives, raise their children and the children of others, and maintain familial and cultural legacies alive.
- Immigrants: who uproot their lives in search of better opportunities for their loved ones.
-Children: with their boundless curiosity, energy and capacity for hope.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
All of the above. A good meal should always be shared.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
One doesn’t become a business leader by chance. It takes effort, planning and a good skills repertoire. It also requires sacrifice. As a working parent, my greatest struggle is balancing work demands with those of my loved ones.

What is your favorite quote?
Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.
Martin Luther King, Jr.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
I’ve never considered myself to be unconventional. I simply follow my instinct and conscience. It’s what I know best.

Biggest mistake made?
I tend to turn most of my mistakes into opportunities. I probably could have taken more risks in the early part of my career. But I have few regrets in that area.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Promoting workforce diversity and inclusion often requires people to go against what comes naturally to them. By definition, what I do is innovative and different because it requires a fundamental rethinking of how we do business. In most businesses, we’re paid for the quality of our ideas. There’s no question that difference is good because when you come at an idea differently, you always make it better.

About the Company:
Time Warner Inc, a global leader in media and entertainment with businesses in television networks, filmed entertainment and publishing, uses its industry-leading operating scale and Brands to create, package and deliver high-quality content worldwide through multiple distribution platforms.

Whether measured by quality, popularity or financial results, our divisions are at the top of their categories. Time Inc., Home Box Office, Turner broadcasting System and Warner Bros. Entertainment maintain unrivaled reputations for creativity and excellence as they keep people informed, entertained and connected. For more information about Time Warner Inc., please visit http://www.timewarner.com/.

Alma Guillermoprieto > Journalist.

2010-09-13T12:18:00.003-04:00

Alma Guillermoprieto, Journalist, International Women’s Media Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award.

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
I’m a Latin American, working for U.S. media. It has often been hard to explain to a U.S. audience that their interests don’t necessarily coincide with ours. But I’ve been very lucky in that the magazines I write for have been unconditionally supportive.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I remind myself that airplane pilots can’t just say, mid-flight: “Well, I’m bored now, I think I’ll just let this plane drop and go home.”

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
My daily challenge, as a free-lancer, is to invent my life from scratch every morning. What should I write about today? Why? Who for? How should I report it? Do I dare check my bank balance?
If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I’d like there to be three of me: one to live, one to read, one to answer email.

What was your childhood ambition?
To be on stage.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
My “adopted” grandmother Pitila, my “adopted” mother Adda, my neighbor down the street, Doña Margarita: I carry grudges; they have the gift of forgiveness. I sacrifice others for my work; they think everyone around them is more important than they are. They give loving support to everyone around them, and thank life every day for the gift of joy.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Breakfast. I enjoy food to much to spoil a good meal by doing business.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
I WISH I were a business success!! But I’m at the polar extreme of that.

What is your favorite quote?
When the then-editor of the New Yorker, Bob Gottlieb, offered me a staff position, I said I was thinking of moving to Moscow to study Russian. He said: “Just because you’re doing something, and doing it well, doesn’t mean it’s not worth doing.” I repeat that to my women students at workshops and universities, and their eyes always well up.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
It would be much more difficult to try to be conventional.

Biggest mistake made?
Not taking voice lessons. I would have been such a great cabaret singer! The serious part of that: it’s always a mistake not to take the toughest risk.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
To a degree, yes. I have tried to talk about Latin America to a U.S. audience from a Latin American point of view, and I hope to have had some small degree of success in that.

About Alma Guillermoprieto:
Alma Guillermoprieto, 60, a Mexican journalist whose articles have illuminated Latin America for her readers. A contributor to the British-based Guardian newspaper, The Washington Post, The New York Review of Books, Newsweek and The New Yorker, she has covered Argentina’s “dirty war,” post-Sandinista Nicaragua, the “Shining Path” rebels in Peru, the Colombian civil war and the Mexican drug wars. In 1982, she was one of only two reporters to investigate rumors of mass killings perpetrated by the U.S.-supported Salvadoran army in El Mozote, El Salvador. When she published her reports in The Washington Post, the Reagan Administration tried to discredit her, but she stood firm. Eventually, the U.S. government was forced to confirm her story.

The IWMF Courage in Journalism Awards honor women journalists who have shown extraordinary strength of character and integrity while reporting the news under dangerous or difficult circumstances. The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes a woman journalist who has a pioneering spirit and whose determination has paved the way for women in the news media.

International Women’s Media Foundation is celebrating its 20th anniversary year.

Mrs. Guillermoprieto will be receiving the Life Time Achievement Award in NYC October 19th and in Los Angeles on October 21.

For further information please visit: http://www.iwmf.org/

Battle of Sexes - Interview with Anne Sweeney, President of Disney, by MeettheBoos

2010-09-08T14:04:00.000-04:00

Content on this page requires a newer version of Adobe Flash Player.

Jorge Ortega > www.JeffreyGroup.com

2010-06-28T16:04:00.001-04:00

Jorge Ortega, President, The Jeffrey Group.

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
Yes, as an American Latino, I am able to share my heritage and cultural experience to the many clients we serve. Our focus is helping multinational companies target Latin audiences and the stakeholders that influence them, so I’m glad I can authentically bring that value to our clients.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I look at the positives and often allow that to outweigh the negatives.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
Taking a small company that was exclusively focused on Latin America and working with my team to build one of the fastest growing and most interesting and specialized integrated communications firms in our markets.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I would have possibly pursued opportunities in other continents, but I am passionate about my culture, my heritage and the work we do every day.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
Well, first, my wife who has worked very hard to help build our awesome family is my best friend and supporter and has built a very nice education business that has done well. That’s a nice combination.

Second, my mother who always demonstrated and taught us about love, patience and determination.

Third, my children. All three of them. They are loving, caring and intelligent kids. I admire them every day.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Definitely lunch. Work is done at lunch.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Sometimes you are not home for dinner, you miss one of your kid’s activities or a family function. That hurts.

What is your favorite quote?
“Manage expectations, follow-up and no surprises” (Bob LaFlamme, my father-in-law)

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Yes. Most people tend to resist change and innovation and want the easy way out.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Yes, a corporate innovator. I like to challenge others to join me in my innovation pursuits.

About the Company:
Established in 1993, The Jeffrey Group is the leading independent agency focused on providing integrated communications expertise to help multinational companies and organizations throughout the Americas connect with Latin audiences and the stakeholders that influence them. The firm has adopted a unique approach to developing and managing creative communications for major companies across the hemisphere including Abbott Laboratories, Acer, Airbus, American Airlines, Bayer, Coca-Cola, Hasbro, Johnson & Johnson, Kaspersky, T-Mobile, and Volkswagen among others.
http://www.jeffreygroup.com/

Isidra Mencos > www.babycenter.com/espanol

2010-06-18T11:32:00.000-04:00

Isidra Mencos, Executive Editor, BabyCenter en Español

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
Being Hispanic is at the core of what I do, since I have been creating and editing content for US Hispanics for many years, first in print and now online. At a personal level I feel proud of being part of the Hispanic community in the US, with its vibrant energy and diversity, and its political, cultural and economic relevance, which increases every day.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
What will keep me going during a rough spot is that I have people who depend on me and I can't let them down. I think every Mom and manager can relate to this sense of responsibility.

The support and insights of friends and colleagues are also essential to weather the storms.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
Starting from scratch in a new country was quite challenging. The cultural shock when I came to the US as a student was overwhelming, as it was leaving all my family and friends behind. It also turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, both professionally and personally.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I wouldn't change anything, unless something I did hurt somebody.

What was your childhood ambition?
As a child I loved reading and writing, and I dreamed of being a novelist. I still dream about it!

Tell us about three people that you admire?
Chiori Santiago: Accomplished writer, creative spirit, inspiring Mom and a true friend. She passed away in 2007 after a year battle with cancer. The outpouring of love and support from friends and colleagues during her illness was a testament of a life well lived.

Jorge Ramos: For his hard work ethic, professional integrity, commitment to the Hispanic community, and humanity.

Every Mom who works hard to improve the life of her family, and contributes to society, be that with her job, helping at school, or simply raising balanced, happy children who make the world a better place.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Meetings at the office are more productive when you're hammering out projects, but lunch or dinner meetings are great for networking, team building, and brain storming.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
More than once I have let go of jobs and financial security to open up room for change and opportunities. In my experience, a willingness to take risks in order to stay true to yourself always ends up paying off.

What is your favorite quote?
"The artist is nothing without the gift, but the gift is nothing without work."
- Emile Zola

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
It can be difficult but sometimes it's necessary. It's worth going through some feelings of isolation and self-doubt to carve your own path. It also helps you be more tolerant of other people's differences, which is a good thing.

Biggest mistake made?
Not allowing enough time to take care of myself. You can't be a good manager (or a good Mom, partner and friend) if you don't allow time for personal development and carve out a balanced life.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Being in the rapidly changing online business, I strive to constantly find new ways to offer Hispanics the information they need in the most useful and appealing way. A big part of my job as a manager is also to hire creative and passionate employees and nurture their potential, so innovation comes from the whole team, not just from me.

About the Company:
BabyCenter® is the leading pregnancy and parenting online destination worldwide. It reaches over 8 million moms in the U.S. and close to 19 million moms monthly in 22 markets from Australia to India to China. In the United States, 7 out of 10 babies born last year were BabyCenter babies.

BabyCenter provides mom with trusted advice from more than 100 experts around the globe, that is remarkably right for her needs. A pioneer in mass personalized media, BabyCenter’s customized, stage-based experience extends beyond the site to mobile and social media, delivering the BabyCenter experience to mom wherever she is and whenever she needs it most. Millions of moms seek out the mom-to-mom wisdom and friendship available across the BabyCenter network

BabyCenter is a member of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies.
www.babycenter.com/espanol

About Isidra Mencos:
Isidra Mencos, Executive Editor of BabyCenter® en Español, is a seasoned editor and writer. She has served as the editor of such prestigious magazines as NewParent en Español, Avanzando con tu Familia, and Parenting Bebé. Mencos also had the opportunity to serve as editor and writer of custom published magazines Target Familia, La salud de su bebé and Nutrición esencial. She has also contributed more than 600 articles on a variety of topics for a syndicated radio program conducted by acclaimed Univision broadcaster, Jorge Ramos.

Her deep knowledge of the daily needs and wants of the Hispanic audience and her passion to serve them the best and most useful information has been the foundation of her work in media.

Mencos began her publishing career early on working in different capacities for renowned Spanish publishers Seix Barral, Planeta, Muchnik Editores, and Luciérnaga. Later she edited Spanish textbooks for McGraw Hill Company and McMillan Publishing Company.

Formerly a graduate student instructor and lecturer at the University of California in Berkeley, where she completed a Ph.D in 1998, Mencos taught Spanish literature and culture, creative and composition writing, as well as Spanish and Catalan. Her engaging and innovative approach in the classroom earned her two teaching awards in 1994. She has published an annotated bibliography on the Catalan writer Merce Rodoreda, which received the “Merce Rodoreda Award” in 1996 in Barcelona, Spain, as well as a work of fiction, “Juego de voces”.

A proud mother of an eight year old boy, Mencos is fluent in several languages, including Spanish, Catalan, French and English.

At BabyCenter en Español, Mencos leads a team of writers, editors, translators and doctors in providing medical, cultural, and lifestyle content specifically tailored to the needs and sensibility of the Hispanic population in the US. Mencos also supervises the work of BabyCenter Mexico's and BabyCenter Spain's editors

Ricardo M. Ariza Pugliese > www.orbitel.com

2010-05-28T14:13:00.001-04:00

Ricardo Ariza Pugliese, Director of International Marketing, Orbitel.

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
Most definitely; our business provides services to Hispanics in the US and Spain; being one of them helps me understand their needs, values, and how to translate them into the language and messages to use in our communication efforts. Being Hispanic makes almost effortless the understanding that the Hispanic Market is in fact 20 Hispanic markets instead of just one.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I see adversity as a challenge. You need to have strong products to deliver and if you believe in them, adversity becomes a challenge. In the more than 15 years that I have been in Marketing I have experienced it a few times with good results. I think if you have your target or your goals well defined, you can definitely overcome the problems.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
Being in the telecommunications industry I have faced steep competition for years, but recently it has been more difficult. On certain products I have to go back to examine the value proposition on the business model to make sure I have enough differentiators elements to face the competition. At the end we had to change some of our marketing strategies but the product remained unchanged.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I would do the MBA now with the experience that I have. In fact I am planning to go back to school sometime, someday.

What was your childhood ambition?
I guess at first, as most of us, being as good as my father. I still want that…

Tell us about three people that you admire?
My dad, Henry Ford and Alvaro Uribe. My dad has been a tremendous influence in many areas, but specially I haven’t met a person that fulfill his dreams as much as my father. Now, Henry Ford changed history and the way we think about manufacturing processes. Alvaro Uribe, President of Colombia I admire him as a politician but more than that, I am deeply thankful for the way he transformed the country for me, my family and for the business where I am currently working.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Breakfast. Lunch and dinners tend to distract people. Although I must confess that I have used the three of them, it usually depends on the client / partner you want to please.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
The biggest one: Live abroad, away from family and friends. This business is focused on the Hispanic emigrant; you must be in the US for that purpose.

What is your favorite quote?
I have several, but one of my favorites is: The Chinese use two brush strokes to write the word 'crisis'. One brush stroke stands for danger; the other for opportunity. In a crisis, be aware of the danger-but recognize the opportunity. (JFK)

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Personally no, I think is a must have attribute on any successful professional. Now for the company it is, Orbitel has one of the very few clean prepaid services on the industry. It is hard to explain to people that they should read the small print on other services that seem inexpensive and that in fact are more expensive. We are proud to have products 100% clean, particularly on the prepaid industry. It is a “good difficulty”.

Biggest mistake made?
Once, I sent by mistake an SMS to my current boss telling him that I have found a new job which in reality was intended to a good friend. I was very complicated to escape from the issue.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
I have been a product manager in several occasions. Innovation is a key factor in developing new services to target customer needs; yes, every product manager and marketing director should have an innovation gene.

About the Company:
Orbitel®, the international business unit of EPM® Telecommunications (UNE®) is a leading telecommunications provider in Latin America. Orbitel® has the backing and experience of EPM® Telecommunications (UNE®) which guarantees a solid and trustworthy service at the vanguard of the changing telecommunications market. Orbitel® has established subsidiaries in the US and Spain providing Prepaid services, Long Distance Plans, Virtual Numbers and Carrier services.
Orbitel’s Carrier Services Department is an important buyer and seller of quality wholesale traffic, moving over 200 million minutes a month for our clients as well as all of Orbitel’s own minutes. Orbitel® is among the top carriers of international traffic in Latin America recognized for its reliable and quality routes
http://www.orbitel.com/

Fabian Gonzalez > www.ING.com/us

2010-02-03T20:17:00.000-05:00

Fabian Gonzalez, Vice President for Multicultural Sales, ING U.S.

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
My role is to focus on Hispanic insurance agents and other financial advisors who serve the U.S. Hispanic marketplace. I think it is critical that someone in this role understand the culture of the people that they’re working with. The fact that I’m from South America and have lived in different Hispanic communities in the U.S. (Texas and Florida) helps provide a diverse cultural framework for me. So, while what I do doesn’t differ greatly from my non-Hispanic counterparts, being part of the U.S. Hispanic society has been critical to my success.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I’m very goal-oriented. Keeping an eye on a goal helps me keep focused on what I need to do. While the past year has been a challenge for our economy, I continue to look forward and help our distribution partners help their customers with their insurance needs.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
I thrive on challenge and change. Both allow me to push myself, learn new skills and expand my knowledge. Therefore, I’m not sure that there is one big challenge that I have faced that has been more monumental than something else or that I haven’t been able to overcome.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I don’t have any complaints about my past and nothing particularly comes to mind. Perhaps, I would have asked ING to move me to one of the offices in a warmer climate. (I currently live in Minneapolis.)

What was your childhood ambition?
Like a lot of boys, I wanted to be a fireman. As I got older, I wanted to be an ambassador and travel around the globe. In some ways, I am an ambassador for ING. I get to travel around the United States, which I enjoy.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
First off, my parents are good, hard-working people who gave everything to make sure that my family had a good home, and their children had a good education. I learned a great deal from them, and admire them very much. I also admire people who dedicate their lives or make significant commitments to helping others. One of those people was Mother Theresa who worked tirelessly for the very poor people in Calcutta, India.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
I work around what my customers prefer. I probably have more dinner meetings because many Hispanics prefer to really engage in conversation beyond just the business at hand.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Well, this is all a matter of perspective. Some people would say that I sacrifice my personal time because of my heavy travel schedule. However, I love working with people and believe that I have a good balance. Therefore, I’m not really sure that I am sacrificing anything.

What is your favorite quote?
Tomorrow brings a new opportunity.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Actually, working for ING, it isn’t difficult at all because the culture promotes good ideas, hard work and values diversity. Even our brand is a bit unconventional when you compare it to many conservative financial services companies.

Biggest mistake made?
I came to the United States in 1999 when I was 29 years old. I probably should have come earlier.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
I do. Being innovative is important because you need to have new ideas to improve and grow. It helps to regularly look at things differently if you want to be able to have continuous growth in your business or personal life. In the business world, my goals get larger every year even if the business climate is not expanding. How do you meet your goals if you’re not bringing new ideas to the table?

About The Company:
ING is a global financial institution of Dutch origin that offers banking, investments, life insurance and retirement services to over 85 million private, corporate and institutional clients in more than 40 countries. With a diverse workforce of about 110,000 people, ING is dedicated to setting the standard in helping our clients manage their financial future.

In the U.S., the ING (NYSE: ING) family of companies offer a comprehensive array of financial services to retail and institutional clients, which include life insurance, retirement plans, mutual funds, direct banking, institutional investment management, annuities, employee benefits and financial planning. ING holds top-tier rankings in key U.S. markets and serves nearly 30 million customers across the nation. For more information, visit www.ing.com/us.

Gabriel R. de la Mora > www.CrewCuts.com

2009-11-17T11:15:00.003-05:00

Gabriel R. de la Mora, Commercial Editor, Crew Cuts.

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
I think being Hispanic has more than influenced my work – it has helped to build it, shape it and define it.

Here in the United States, being a Hispanic commercial editor has certainly added some new and interesting challenges for me. Coming from Mexico City, clients tend to take more risks creatively than they do here - especially when it comes to Hispanic market TV spots. My job now is to help Hispanic agency ‘creatives’ deal with their clients’ parameters through an alternative way of editing, one that will avoid using the obvious or easy solution.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
In terms of work, it’s my sense of responsibility and an enormous amount of patience that keeps me going.

In life, it’s just thinking about my own life and realizing how great it has been - having a great family and being loved by just so many good people.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
For me, the biggest challenge I face is trying never to repeat myself in my work, and always attempting to entertain myself through my work, as equally as I am entertaining those viewing my work.

Commercial editing is a tough job – you need to tell a story, evoke an emotion, sell a product, relate to and engage your consumer…all in the typical time-frame of 30 seconds. 60, if you’re lucky. And, you have to convince viewers not to flip the channel, fast forward, or divert their attention. So for me, I want to make something interesting and unique, every single time.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
Nothing at all. Every good or bad thing that has happened to me has made me who I am today.

What was your childhood ambition?
I wanted to be good at video games.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
-3D Artists or Designers because I wish I could do that.
-Paco de Lucia, because he's so fast with the guitar!
-My mom and my Mother-in-law, because they are always in a good mood no matter what happens.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
None, I don't like to have meetings while I'm eating because it takes away the pleasure of really enjoying what you're eating.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
When I started in this business I dropped out of school and I spent all of my days glued to a computer just learning whatever software that was made available to me. The biggest sacrifice would be not spending more time with friends and family over that 5 year period in the beginning of my career.

What is your favorite quotation?
Patience is a form of action.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Not really because being unconventional draws people towards you; if you are unconventional you become a mystery to them. I don't speak much while I'm working. I let my work do all the talking.

Biggest mistake made?
Once when I was an assistant editor in Mexico City they had finished this movie that took a lot of time to cut and I sent an incorrect Final Negative Cutlist of it to the Lab. None of the cuts matched and it was a real miracle that they didn't cut the negatives! At the end I had to redo the list and everything worked out fine. I thought that I was going to be fired but I wasn't!

Do you consider yourself an Innovator?
That's a big word! I don't think that I'm an innovator because I haven't changed the way I do things and I haven’t created something completely new. I've been following the footsteps of my mentors like Juan Carlos Martin or Daniel Gruener. I view them as true innovators, and trying to be as good as them brings me closer to Innovation. My style is a mix of all of their styles.

About the Company:
Industry independent, Crew Cuts, is a full service postproduction house headquartered in New York City. Home to some of the industry’s most coveted talent, Crew Cuts’ end-to-end post expertise span across all realms of commercial and film editing, visual effects, motion graphics, audio / sound design, and mixing. The facility’s ongoing investment in talent and technology has kept them at the top of their game through years of industry transition and transformation. Their ongoing success includes recent award winning work for brands like: GE, Dairy Queen, Saturday Night Live, L’Oreal, Home Depot, Time Warner Cable and Holiday Inn.

For more information, please visit the website at http://www.crewcuts.com/

Manny Ruiz > www.HispanicPRWire.com

2009-07-31T11:15:00.004-04:00

Manny Ruiz, President, Multicultural Markets & Hispanic PR Wire.

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
In some good and bad ways being Hispanic does influence the way I do business. Early in my media and marketing career I realized that while being Hispanic often made others label me in a discriminatory way it also helped me because I made being Hispanic my niche. When you come from a blue collar background like I did, you grasp at the lowest hanging opportunity that you can and that’s what I did. I embraced my Hispanic culture in the niche field of PR because I knew I would be one of the few to do so. While some Latinos think it’s bad to be seen as Hispanic I've used it as my strength. I said to myself, if I'm going to be labeled Hispanic because that's just the way things are, I'm going to be 1000% Hispanic. So I called my first company Hispanic PR Wire in case anybody had any doubt what I knew best. It worked!

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
First of all, my faith in my Lord Jesus. The good Lord has given me the wisdom, courage and ability to overcome things in life and business that I couldn't have done alone. The other thing that deeply motivates me is my intense desire to succeed for my family. I come from a blue collar family and we d me that I have to I come from a working class family and I want to help my children rise higher than I will.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
In business it was starting Hispanic PR Wire with a limited business background and no money to compete against a determined, huge competitor that on paper should have beat me to the pulp. The irony is that the huge competitor I'm referring to, PR Newswire, is now my former competitor because last year PR Newswire bought my company and I'm currently the president of PR Newswire's Multicultural Service division. To their credit, PR Newswire not only has preserved Hispanic PR Wire but we've even expanded our multicultural services to include Hispanic multimedia and web marketing tools.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I wish my grandparents who raised me and my dad were still alive. I would love to share my successes with them because they gave me the foundation I needed.

What was your childhood ambition?
My earliest ambition was to be a soldier because my earliest hero was John Wayne and all the movies I saw when I was little was of him in World War II. Once I realized we weren't in war, my realistic child ambition became to be a professional NFL quarterback and to direct movies for Hollywood. It's too late for me to join the NFL but my other dream is alive and well.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
Billy Graham for his faithfulness and integrity.
Dan Marino, former quarterback of the Miami Dolphins, because he inspired my passion for sports.
Director Robert Rodriguez because he's the ultimate, multi-talented Hollywood director and it's a bonus that he happens to be a proud Latino.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
How's this for irony? For seven years I owned a well respected media company but through those years I couldn't afford to have cable TV at home. I spent years watching my beloved Miami Dolphins games in the homes of friends, ANYBODY really, that had cable TV.

What is your favorite quote?
Seek first the Kingdom of Heaven and all things shall be added unto you. Jesus said that quote and the reason it's significant to me was because it was only when I aligned my life and thoughts with God that I was able to see the opportunities he opened up for me. The Christian life is a daily struggle and its the most challenging thing to do right because we're all fallen by nature.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Quite the opposite. At this stage in my life I find it terribly difficult to be conventional. Being conventional is "safe" but it is boring and unmemorable and I'm a bit of a risk taker. To make your business stand out, you need to strive for being unconventional in every way you can.

Biggest mistake made?
My biggest mistake business mistake was not having the right accountant to start it. Not having the right accountant to work on my business cost me more than $300,000 over the long run. That's a costly lesson.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
There are very few people that can be called innovators. I would probably count the Steve Jobs and Walt Disneys of the world in two hands. Those folks are innovators. The bulk of everyone else in business, myself included, have simply modified ideas that existed before and dressed them up with our own brands and interpretations. People compliment me for creating Hispanic PR Wire and I'm flattered by that but in reality I didn't do anything new. PR Newswire invented the paid news wire business and all I did was simply Hispanicize it to perfection for a niche market interest.

About the Company
PR Newswire provides electronic distribution, targeting, measurement and broadcast services on behalf of tens of thousands of corporate, government, association, labor, non- profit, and other customers worldwide. Using PR Newswire, these organizations reach a variety of critical audiences including the news media, the investment community, government decision-makers, and the general public with their up- to-the-minute, full-text news developments.

Digital and Social Media Convergence 2009 Conference: Meet the Latin Disruptors of Media, Entertainment, Technology & Advertising Attracts Influen...

2009-07-29T14:54:00.000-04:00

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Latin Media and Entertainment Commission of the City of New York (LMEC) and LatinVision Media announced today the full lineup of participants in this year’s Wednesday, October 14, 2009, Digital and Social Media Convergence 2009 Conference. Janet Robinson, CEO of The New York Times, will do the opening remarks. A three-hour Business Networking Reception follows where industry, talent and investors will be able to connect in a more relaxed environment at the crossroads of the world.

The 2009 Convergence Conference is the premier event for Latin media, entertainment, technology and advertising CEOs and executives looking to grow their business and explore new opportunities with Latin audiences and to reach the mainstream, which spotlights the constant state of creation and evolution required of business leaders in today’s rapidly changing digital and social media landscape.

“This year’s Convergence Conference will bring together the best minds of the country’s Latin media, entertainment, technology and advertising sectors to the center of the world’s greatest stage – New York City,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “This collaboration between our City’s Latin Media and Entertainment Commission and LatinVision is another example of the great work our City is doing to solidify our position as the Latin media and entertainment capital of the world.”

Speakers are going to explore ideas and offer wisdom on the constant changes that are taking place within these industries. Among the varied topics are what creativity means in a digital world, whether the Web can support quality content, and how technology can change not only the way a company sends messages to consumers but also the way a company operates locally, regionally and internationally.

“Convergence 2009 captures the feverish pace of transformation happening in the media, entertainment, technology and advertising world today,” said Carlos Vassallo, CEO of LatinVision. “It is clearly a time of great change. A look at the top 50 US Websites shows that many are getting more traffic from abroad than from the US Spanish and is the third most used language in the world on the Internet with 130 million users after Chinese and English,” added Mr. Vassallo.

Speakers are a “who’s who” of CEOs, top marketers, senior executives, publishers, and industry gurus and experts. To view the speakers simply log onto

www.latinvision.com/conference/speakers.pdf

In addition to the lineup of keynotes, Convergence 2009 offers its attendees an unrivaled opportunity to learn from CEO’s and senior marketers who will share their experience from across a variety of emerging platforms including streaming, podcasting, radio, blogging, social networking, Internet, WiFi, audio, video and mobile casting and case studies of new ventures and how they got started through financing and networking events

For a full list of confirmed speakers and information on how to register, please visit www.latinvision.com/conference

Several sponsorship packages are still available. For more information on sponsorships, please contact Carlos Vassallo at 646-519-2452 or via email at: carlos@latinvision.com

About the Latin Media and Entertainment Commission (LMEC)
Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg created the LMEC in 2003 with the mission to make New York the capital of Latin media and entertainment.

The Commission advises the Mayor on business development and retention strategies for the Latin media and entertainment industry, to retain, recruit, and expand Latin media and entertainment productions, businesses, and jobs in New York City and to attract and host high-profile Latin entertainment productions and events and to support and create New York based events

The Commission is made up of leaders from the Latin and mainstream media industry, community leaders from the nonprofit and cultural sectors, and leading executives from the financial, advertising, publishing, new media, and real estate sectors.

The heads of seven City agencies, under the direction of the Deputy Mayor for Economic Development, serve on the commission as ex officio members.

About LatinVision Media
LatinVision Media Inc. is a New York based Company that operates business portals targeting US Hispanic and Latin American professionals, entrepreneurs, executives and business owners in a small and medium-sized companies.
See all our sites here: http://tinyurl.com/LatinVision and follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/latinvision

Contacts:
Carlos Vassallo
CEOLatinVision Media Inc.
POB 376 Church St. Station
New York, NY 10008
www.latinvision.com/conference
carlos@latinvision.com
Tel: 646-519-2452
Fax: 469-533-4874

Carlos Manzano
Executive Director Latin Media and Entertainment Commission
New York City Economic Development Corporation
110 William Street • New York, NY 10038
www.nycedc.com
cmanzano@nycedc.com

Aurelio Rodriguez > www.domain.com

2009-07-02T15:03:00.003-04:00

Aurelio Rodríguez, International Business Development, Domain.com

Being Hispanic, does it have any influence on your business?
Being Hispanic allows me to better understand greater and diverse markets segments, providing a strategic advantage. Recently, Domain.com announced that it would be offering the complete Domain.com experience—all product offerings, account management, customer support—in Spanish. This is particularly exciting for me because the U.S. Hispanic population is one of the fastest growing online markets, spending nearly twenty percent more time online than other demographics with more than half their time spent on Spanish language websites. Reaching this online demographic is becoming increasingly important for Hispanic businesses to stay relevant and increase their customer base. I am proud to work for a company that understands the importance of the emerging Hispanic business market and is able and willing to support it.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
Adversity makes me work harder. If I am convinced that my thesis is correct then adversity is welcomed. I believe that there is a seed of opportunity hidden in all adversity.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
1-I owned and operated one of Miami's most famous Latin nightclubs, La Covacha. In 1999 it burned down due to arson and one of the biggest challenges I faced was mustering the courage to reopen immediately as the rebuilding process took place.

2- In 1999 I personally guaranteed all of my personal assets to start my internet venture Naveguia. I raised $3 million in start-up venture capital only to have the company fold during the dot.com bust. The failure of this venture led to near bankruptcy, divorce and starting over at the ground floor.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
Nothing ...Every mistake has been a lesson on how NOT to do something.

What was your childhood ambition?
To be an inventor which was probably my way of defining my urge to create, innovate and build.

Tell us about three people that you admire
My mother and father came to Miami as Cuban immigrants. Their hard work and dedication to making our lives better taught us a lesson in perseverance, resiliency and faith.

Disney - Building his dream against all odds

Steve Jobs – World’s best second act

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Breakfast, coffee is in the blood and all systems are go.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
More work = Less Time for Family, Personal and Spiritual life

What is your favorite quote?
The harder I work, the luckier I get.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
It can be difficult because others inability to see your vision can create roadblocks. Innovating requires horizontal thinking and, even when you can see the full picture, others fail to connect the dots.

Biggest mistake made?
I let my arrogance and greed ruin the day. I founded an internet start-up geared toward the Hispanic and Brazilian markets and failed to accept a $30 million private placement only to have the market crash in 2000 and lose funding.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
My business strategies have been referred to as innovative however I see them as common sense. As a leader you learn to look within, follow your heart and trust your instincts. This will not guarantee success BUT odds are you will be right more often than not.

About the Company
Domain.com's web solutions have helped make our customers successful since 2000. Based in Vancouver, Washington, we are one of the world's largest domain registration and web hosting companies. We strive to provide innovative products and services at a great value. Our mission has been and still is to provide that rarest combination - the highest quality products and reliability AND the most affordable prices in the industry.
We specialize in affordable domain names, web hosting, VPS hosting, Email, SSL certificates, web design, and online marketing services. Our free domain services including URL Forwarding, Email Forwarding, Transfer Lock, and Total DNS Management, give customers comprehensive control over their domain portfolios.
Strong word of mouth referrals and long-term relationships have driven our impressive growth. We are committed to making our customers successful on the web.

Edward Montes > www.havasdigital.com

2009-05-28T16:01:00.008-04:00

Edward Montes, EVP Managing Director US, Havas Digital

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?

Yes, but mostly due to the fact that I work for a Havas Digital and Havas’ roots happen to be Spanish! I am grateful to be a part of an organization in the US which shares my Latin heritage. One of biggest perks of working with a company that has such a strong ties to its’ Spanish roots and Latin operations is that I regularly use my language skills and enjoy a tremendously diverse company culture.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I once got a fortune cookie that said “the climb gets harder as you approach the summit”- it really resonated with me. I view adversity as part of the journey to the summit. I not only think that this is true of my professional experiences but personal as well. I never want to stop learning and trying to turn adversity that I face into a learning opportunity.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
It is funny you ask that, I believe I am facing it right now as I work to continue to grow our business in the most tumultuous economy of my business career. It started last summer as some of our clients literally disappeared… Our staffing is very sensitive to fluctuations in client billings and at the same time there is a scarcity of quality talent in our industry. So, I would say weathering the current economic environment, retaining staff, as well as exceeding our forecasted budget for this year are my greatest challenges to date…

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I would have realized at a younger age that life is not only about the choices you make but also about working hard to be in a position to make choices.

What was your childhood ambition?
I always wanted to be a lawyer or a doctor. Although my current title might fool you, I have a Law Degree. I even put it to use for a as a Prosecutor in the Middlesex District Attorney’s office of Massachusetts, where I prosecuted numerous major felonies and appellate actions. I feel very fortunate that I was able to accomplish that childhood dream.

Tell us about two people that you admire?

The first person I would cite is my mother, Catalina Montes. She had to flee Cuba under difficult circumstances in the early 60’s. Having faced such adversity at an early age she could have become bitter or broken down but she chose the opposite and became one of the strongest, most determined, people I know. Proof of those qualities is in her tremendously successful career in Education. She has taught and inspired numerous disadvantaged children to pursue their dreams along the way.

Another person I really admire is David Filo, Co-Founder of Yahoo!, who I had a chance to work for at Yahoo! It was an amazing and invaluable part of my career. David’s humility is something which I will always admire and keep in the back of my mind. You would never know he was worth a small fortune and has accomplished so much. He would never boast about his career or the fruits of it. Anyone who can be that humble given his accomplishments is someone to admire.
For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?

Breakfast or dinner, lunch is too much of a disruption in the middle work day. That being said, I suppose I prefer breakfast over dinner because it is the calmest and most predictable part of my day. Once things get going my schedule can fill up pretty quickly so it is best to grab me early.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?

I consider myself a work in progress and not a success and I haven’t had to sacrifice much except some free time. I enjoy working and I am lucky to work with incredible people who make it an exciting and intellectually stimulating environment.

What is your favorite quote?
He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.Muhammad Ali

Is it difficult to be unconventional?

I don’t know that I am unconventional. I try to my job to the best of my ability, put in maximum effort, and challenge things that don’t appear to be correct. On thing people might find unconventional though is that I “don’t go along to get along”. - I don’t think people should challenge status quo more often.

Biggest mistake made?
I don’t think I have one mistake which I would consider my “biggest”. I suppose I could sum a few of the biggest mistakes I’ve made by saying that I don’t say thank you enough.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?

No, I don’t consider myself an innovator. I just try and approach my work with the unique lens my education and experience allow me.

About the Company:

Edward Montes is EVP, Managing Director of Havas Digital US, the interactive network of Havas Media. He is responsible for the development and leadership of Media Contacts US and Canada, managing MC staff spread across five North American offices: New York, Boston, San Francisco, Chicago and Toronto. Previously, Montes served as Managing Director of the Boston office, the largest of Media Contacts’ US operations. Within this role, Montes demonstrated an exceptional rapport with clients and a proven ability to not only lead the organization, but drive strategic new business objectives as well.

Prior to Havas Digital, Edward worked at Yahoo! Inc. During his tenure he served as the Director of Special Projects for Yahoo!’s Media, Entertainment, Information, and Finance Groups and the General Manager of Yahoo! Delivers, Yahoo!’s direct marketing advertising product. Immediately following his tenure at Yahoo!, Montes served as a consultant to the wireless technology industry providing insights into the data application sector and the delivery of advertising to mobile handsets.

Before entering the interactive industry, Montes was a Prosecutor in the Middlesex District Attorney’s office of Massachusetts, where he prosecuted numerous major felonies and appellate actions. Montes is a graduate of the Boston University School of Law, and a Cum Laude graduate of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

Deborah Parenti > www.radioink.com

2009-05-15T19:29:00.006-04:00

Deborah Parenti, Radio Broadcaster, Hispanic Radio Ink

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business? only if it is applicable

I am not Hispanic. I am half Italian but I think there are many cultural similarities that strongly influence and shape our approach to business - one that places emphasis on loyalty and dedication and overflows with creative energy and drive

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I think it's important to maintain an outward focus - in other words, not to internalize too much. Sometimes the best way to get through a difficult situation is by shifting gears - devoting some of that energy and attention to someone or something else. That doesn't mean ignoring problems. Sweeping things under the rug is not an option but single minded concentration on one's own situations can easily lead to self absorption instead of solutions.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
Over the years, my biggest challenge has been maintaining a balance between professional and personal obligations. I tend to throw myself into whatever project I am involved in at the time and find myself rushing through everything else. It's true, you really do need to "stop and smell the roses."

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
To relax more and let go on occasion. My ex husband used to tease that the world did not need to worry - I had that covered.

What was your childhood ambition?
As a little girl, I wanted to be a singer or a beautiful ballet dancer. Which is odd because I was terribly shy - I could have never gotten on stage! When I was five, I was invited to ride a pony on a children's TV show. I was terrified and tried to hide behind the set curtain.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
I idolized my material grandmother - she was a quintessential "lady," a woman of great style and a love for me that I could feel from the moment she entered the room.

My sons, two of the most incredible individuals I have ever known. They are total opposites in so many ways but both such thoroughly engaging and decent human beings.

My dad, because he was just an all around wonderful man with a great voice, a crazy sense of humor and an unconditional love of family. Before we lost him last year, I watched him take such loving care of my mother who was quite ill. It was beautiful and generous and I was blessed to witness it.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
That depends on the objective of the meeting and how well acquainted with the other party. If it's a presentation, let's skip the meal and do it at the office. That aside, I find people are usually fresher at breakfast, lunch may be rushed and dinner can take on a more relaxed tone. In all cases, however, could we all quit checking our PDA's. It's so rude (and yes, I am guilty at times)

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
The biggest sacrifice was time - time to explore other interests. Pursuing a career and raising two sons consumed, albeit gladly, all of mine for many years. Fortunately, I did get the gift of time later. I dropped out of business for about six years and "got in touch" with other areas of life like writing, volunteering, traveling and decorating. I even got a certificate in Interior Decorating - a far cry from radio.

What is your favorite quote?
"Work like you don't need money,Love like you've never been hurt,And dance like no one's watching."

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Unconventional people usually don't think they are unconventional. They tend to believe the rest of the world just doesn't get it.

Biggest mistake made?
I have made my share of mistakes but quite possibly my greater shortcoming, especially in personal areas, has been not knowing when to give up. Persistence can be a virtue but it can also be a stumbling block to moving on.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
I am a bit of an innovator but would more describe myself as a creative problem solver. I'm a strong believer that alternative solutions should be part of every plan. You don't want to get caught short - and that means considering all the possible objections up front and then designing appropriate solutions in an executable fashion. Too many great ideas fail because implementation hasn't been given the same consideration as the idea. So I guess I am a mixed bag, something that used to drive my staffs crazy. They never knew which side of "Deborah" was going to show up at the meeting - the creative clown or the pragmatist.

About the Company
Radio Ink is a leading radio trade publication that focuses on broadcast sales, marketing and management. In addition to a bi-monthly print magazine, the publication includes an online web site and daily online headlines delivered every morning via email. Radio Ink also sponsors three conferences - the annual Focecast summit at the Harvard Club in New York, which examines industry economic trends, projections and analysis; ConVergence, a new media conference targeted at radio broadcasters and held in San Jose; and the Hispanic Radio Conference, the only conference dedicated solely to Hispanic radio.

Deborah Parenti is a veteran broadcaster whose career has spanned positions in her hometown of Dayton, as well as Louisville and Philadephia. Her range of experience includes promotion, marketing, business management, sales and sales and general management. She broke the glass ceiling in Dayton as the first woman to manage a radio station in the market and established one of the first consolidated operations in the country, as well as designed and branded an innovative multi-station selling platform in 1996, "Radio First!" A participant over the years in panels and as a speaker at NAB, CRS, RAB and Pollack Media conferences, Ms. Parenti will be inducted in the Dayton Broadcasters' Hall of Fame this coming September. Deborah is also a previous Radio Ink Radio Wayne nominee, and today manages Radio Ink publications and conferences.

Carlos Manzano > www.nyc.gov/lmec

2009-05-07T09:13:00.008-04:00

Carlos Manzano, Executive Director of the Latin Media and Entertainment Commission NYC.

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business? Yes. I have the ability to shape and influence how non-Latinos and even Latinos view our great and rich culture as well as engage and participate.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I keep reminding myself what my mother always said, “When you fall—and you will because that’s part of life—simply get up, take a deep breath, think strategically, and keep moving.” And try not to make the same mistake twice.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
Running for political office was my biggest challenge so far. I did not succeed, but I sure learned a great deal about people.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I would have taken music and voice lessons early in my life.

What was your childhood ambition?
I wanted to be a rock star.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
Elias and Fanny, my parents (sorry, can’t separate them =))
Mother Theresa
Harry Truman

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
It depends: For business short and to the point meetings; for politics lunch or dinner.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
I spent a lot of time getting my education part time nights and weekends. During all those years, I gave up a lot of my social and personal life.

What is your favorite quote?
Don’t do onto others what you don’t want done onto yourself.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
It can be. There must be value in unconventional approaches for people to see why what you propose is good.

Biggest mistake made?
Nobody is perfect, and God knows I made a few in my lifetime.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Yes. I want processes and systems to be better, simpler, faster, more efficient, and fun. When you give people an experience, they’ll return.

About the Company:

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg created the Latin Media and Entertainment Commission to make New York City the Latin media capital of the world.

The Commission advises the Mayor on business development and retention strategies for the Latin media and entertainment industry.

LMEC Goals
Develop a strategic plan to retain, recruit, and expand Latin media and entertainment productions, businesses, and jobs in New York City.
Develop a strategic plan for New York City to attract and host high-profile Latin entertainment productions and events and to support and create New York based events.

John Farrell > www.google.com

2009-04-30T10:27:00.008-04:00

John Farrell, General Director Google Mexico.

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
Yes, it drives my interest to bring the value of Google's platforms to the hispanic community.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
In the military there is a well known axiom: "Plans mean nothing, planning is everything". We should expect adversity, it's what makes our life challenging and fun. But we should prepare for it to make us more competent.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
The first few months after my son was born 4 months premature (he's now fine).

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
Wish I had started playing golf earlier- to have a better handicap =)

What was your childhood ambition?
President of the US

Tell us about three people that you admire?
Alexander Hamilton: amazing intellect, major contributor to the survival of the US after its independence by consolidating state debts under a central bank, and creating a Federal army. Hamilton's clash of ideas with Jefferson is the foundation of our constitution.

Martin Luther King: leadership centered on courage and morality. He led black Americans to genuine freedom, and liberated white America from a shameful past.

Alvaro Uribe: rescued Colombia from terror and lawlessness. A challenge to any cynic who think some things can't change.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
None- rather have short meeting in an office setting. If eating is imperative I rather do breakfast.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Less time available than I would have liked to spend with my family.

What is your favorite quote?
"Sometimes our best is not enough, sometime we have to do what is required." Winston Churchill

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
I think most truly unconventional people don't try- they are simply engineered to think in unconventional ways.

Biggest mistake made?
Undercapitalized start-up, cash flow challenges can create too much stress!

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Yes- always looking to improve things, even if only incrementally.

About the Company:
Google's mission is to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful.

As a first step to fulfilling that mission, Google's founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin developed a new approach to online search that took root in a Stanford University dorm room and quickly spread to information seekers around the globe. Google is now widely recognized as the world's largest search engine -- an easy-to-use free service that usually returns relevant results in a fraction of a second.
When you visit

www.google.com or one of the dozens of other Google domains, you'll be able to find information in many different languages; check stock quotes, maps, and news headlines; lookup phonebook listings for every city in the United States; search billions of images and peruse the world's largest archive of Usenet messages -- more than 1 billion posts dating back to 1981.

Google's utility and ease of use have made it one of the world's best known brands almost entirely through word of mouth from satisfied users. As a business, Google generates revenue by providing advertisers with the opportunity to deliver measurable, cost-effective online advertising that is relevant to the information displayed on any given page. This makes the advertising useful to you as well as to the advertiser placing it. We believe you should know when someone has paid to put a message in front of you, so we always distinguish ads from the search results or other content on a page. We don't sell placement in the search results themselves, or allow people to pay for a higher ranking there.
Thousands of advertisers use our

Google AdWords program to promote their products and services on the web with targeted advertising, and we believe

AdWords is the largest program of its kind. In addition, thousands of web site managers take advantage of our Google AdSense program to deliver ads relevant to the content on their sites, improving their ability to generate revenue and enhancing the experience for their users.

To learn more about Google, click on the link at the left for the area that most interests you. Or type what you want to find into our search box and hit enter.

Jorge Mariscal > Rohatyn Group

2009-04-24T16:54:00.008-04:00

Jorge Mariscal, one of the Founding Partners of The Rohatyn Group.

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
Owing to my roots there, I maintain personal and business relationships which are critical to the understanding and positioning our firm's investments in Latin America.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
I believe life rewards staying power and the most challenging environments often present the most satisfying opportunities. When things get tough, one needs to keep moving, even if at baby steps. I always remind myself that however bad it is, "it too shall pass".

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
My first job after graduate school in New York City ended shortly after the stock market crash of 1987. For several months after that I was in the Big Apple unemployed, broke and alone.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I would have liked to be a young father.

What was your childhood ambition?
I had several: to cure animals, to write novels, to visit every country of the world.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
Tony Blair
Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz
My father

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
None. When you mix food and business, you cannot really focus on either.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
To have my family far away.

What is your favorite quote?
I once saw this sculpture which was a large stone block, on it was written "nothing is written in stone".

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Yes, and not necessarily always advisable.

Biggest mistake made?
To hurt the people I love.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
I try to live creatively, at home and at work. Once in a while I come up with something unique.

About the Company.
The Rohatyn Group, a New York-based asset management company focused on global emerging market investments. The firm manages over $2.5 billion in assets. Mr. Mariscal has over 20 years of experience in international financial markets, with 18 years specifically dedicated to emerging markets. His expertise is in fundamental investment research and portfolio strategy. For the last 3 years, Mr. Mariscal has also taught the course: Emerging Financial Markets: theory and practice at the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) of Columbia University.

Mr. Mariscal has served in senior positions on Wall Street with extensive experience in building and managing top-ranked investment research teams and advising portfolio managers. Prior to joining The Rohatyn Group, Mr. Mariscal was a Managing Director at Goldman Sachs in charge of coordinating the firm's global emerging markets research product and portfolio strategy. From 1992 to 2001, he and his team were frequently named to the prestigious “Institutional Investor Latin American Research Team" as well as other similar polls. While at Goldman Sachs, he also founded and directed the Latin America Equity Research Group. Prior to this, Mr. Mariscal held senior positions at The Nomura Research Institute where he led the Latin American economic and equity research effort. He also served as a Vice President on the sovereign debt restructuring desk of Manufacturers Hanover Trust and began his career at Merrill Lynch, working with the firm's Chief Economist.

Mr. Mariscal was born and raised in Mexico City. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from The Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana and holds a Ph.D. in Economics from New York University.

Fernando Rodriguez > www.terra.com

2009-03-12T08:47:00.000-04:00

Fernando Rodríguez joined Terra Networks in 2000 as Chief Financial Officer and as a founding member of the team that launched Terra.com. In 2004 he took on the position of Chief Executive Officer and he now oversees the operations of Terra Networks in the US, with headquarters based in Miami and offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco. He has played a key role in the growth of the organization and in consolidating Terra Networks USA’s position as the leading Internet portal for the US Hispanic market.

Under his leadership, Terra.com has grown its audience to reach over 13 million unique visitors per month, and has increased its advertising revenue to become one of the leading digital platforms targeting the Latino market. The primary sources of revenue are Spanish, English and Portuguese language online advertising campaigns throughout the United States and the Latin American region.

Terra Networks USA is a division of Terra Latin America, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Telefónica Group, and the largest Internet and ISP company in the Latin American region, reaching over 58 million unique visitors monthly .

Prior to joining Terra Networks, Rodríguez worked in the Telefónica Group, the leading global telecommunications company in the world. Rodríguez held various financial positions in Telefónica de España and in Telefonica S.A.. During those years he lead a team that worked with McKinsey and Company in analyzing the performance and valuation of several Telefónica global business units - from mobile and fixed telephony to Internet access and corporate business solutions.

Fernando Rodríguez began his career as a Foreign Trade Expert working for the Madrid Chamber of Commerce in Mexico City. He holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and several other executive programs including
an Executive Management Program by the IESE Business School and Harvard Business School. In 2007, he received the Latin Chamber of Commerce (CAMACOL) Executive of the Year award. He currently resides in Miami with his wife and son.

Alberto Cardenas > www.tewlaw.com

2008-07-28T09:43:00.000-04:00

Alberto R. Cardenas, a partner in the law firm of Tew Cardenas LLP

Being Hispanic – does it have any influence on your business?
At this stage, my ethnicity is not much of a factor professionally. At the beginning of my career, it was tough for a young Hispanic attorney to be welcomed into South Florida’s top tier law firm.
Upon graduation I had been editor of our law review at a fine law school and watched peers with lesser credentials being offered better jobs.
Today – South Florida is far different and it’s probably an advantage for a young professional to be a minority or a female.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
Adversity is an exciting, incredible opportunity to learn life’s most lasting lessons, plus it’s hard to match the personal satisfaction one can achieve when overcoming adversity at either a personal or business level.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
Personally: Losing my father early in my life at a time our family had very limited financial resources and needed his love and guidance.

Business: Losing all of our investments at the end of the 80’s during a real estate and banking crisis. I am proud that, instead of filing bankruptcy as most advisers suggested, we opted to repay our debts and rebuild our future. It was definitely the most character building experience in my life to date.

Politically: Heading Florida’s Republican Party and George Bush’s presidential campaign in 2000 during the 37 days of “Florida’s Presidential Recount”.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I would have made better use of my late teens and early twenties. I don’t regret having had the great times of youth; but should have had less of it – that’s for sure.

What was your childhood ambition?
My childhood ambitions weren’t very serious: I watched every cowboy movie available…..wanted to have a “fast draw” and be a great horseback rider. Then in my early teens it switched to be a great athlete in many sports.

I didn’t begin thinking about a career passion until college.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
How about 3 types of people?

Privileged minds – those who come around every 200 years or so, like Leonardo DaVinci, Isaac Newton; Albert Einstein.

Unsung heroes - those who dedicate their hearts to healing and helping the less fortunate, the homeless; terminally ill with contagious deceases, orphans.

Those who have fought for our country and received Congressional Medals of Honor – our bravest fighting for our freedom.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
I travel 3 or 4 days a week. So I actually have breakfast, lunch and dinner meetings almost every work day.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Advice: Stay single or marry an exceptional partner. To be truly successful in any endeavor takes a 24/7 mind set. I was fortunate to marry a true partner. Thanks to her; we lead a balanced life. It is very difficult to do but it’s the way to a fulfilled life. After all, the only thing that really counts in your death-bed is your family or human legacy.

What is your favorite quote?
To thine own self be true.
You can’t be successful in your private or business life unless you follow the principles of that quote.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Being unconventional is not difficult if it represents who you truly are. If that is you – then that’s how you should be.

Biggest mistake made?
O boy……I’ve made many.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
If innovator means being the FIRST to do something – then yes!
* I started an ATO Chapter at FAU. First fraternity on campus.
* I was FIRST Hispanic to run a major congressional campaign in Florida, vs. Claude Pepper.
* I was FIRST Hispanic elected chair of Florida’s Republican Party.
* I was a founder of the Cuban American National Foundation.
* I was a founder of the Cuban American Bar Association.

About the Firm
Tew Cardenas LLP is a full service law firm with offices in Miami, Tallahassee and Washington, D.C. Our Firm represents, advises, and advocates for a wide array of clients, including domestic and international companies, federal, state and local governments as well as foreign governments and individuals. Our team possesses vast experience across industries including aviation, communications, construction, energy, financial services, food & beverage, hospitality, real estate development, retail and pharmaceutical.

Tom Maney > www.foxsportsla.msn.com

2008-05-07T16:29:00.000-04:00

Tom Maney Senior Vice President, Fox Sports en Español

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
I’m not Hispanic, I’m ½ Italian and ½ Irish…. But I love the culture and the warmth of the marketplace. I have embraced the Hispanic culture as one of my own. It has because it has become one of our principal cultures here in the U.S., so I am constantly surrounded by great, caring people, and one cannot help but share in its joy. In general, it makes business more fun and exciting. Being able to connect with such a rich culture is a genuine gift.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
See my favorite quote….. I love challenges and the challenge given to me 10 years ago to build and develop a Spanish language cable sports network has been the most fun and rewarding experience in my 20+ years in media. It’s fun being the underdog…..

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
I think the biggest challenge I ever faced was training to run the NYC Marathon. I always wanted to do one, but having never run more than 3 miles the 26.2 mile marathon was a huge challenge. In every way it was symbolic to how you need to approach life’s challenges. Setting a goal, developing a plan for success, sticking to the plan despite small set backs, until eventually achieving the goal. I ran it in 4 hours and 30 minutes, and finished with a smile on my face.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I would have loved to have lived/worked in Latin America or Europe for a period of time. I love different cultures….

What was your childhood ambition?
To be an Oceanographer, to study ocean and sea life. I love the water, I could swim before I could walk, and am fascinated by the under water world.

Tell us about three people that you admire?

My father- An early pioneer in television and my best friend in life.

Rupert Murdoch- His vision to build and launch new media outlets and his determination to succeed despite many challenges.
Larry Bird- A consummate professional who had an incredible work ethic to be #1 and to lead a team in winning.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Breakfasts are great, I am an early riser. Lunch doesn’t work, too much time taken from the busy day. Dinners are great especially at great restaurants with fabulous wine.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Being away from my family with the amount of travel I have to do for my job. I have two beautiful daughters ages 7 & 10 who I love to be with every day.

What is your favorite quote?
Obstacles are what you see if you take your eyes off your goal!

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Not at all. Being unconventional leads to new thinking and being innovative.

Biggest mistake made?
Not taking a 40% pay cut with a huge options package for an internet company back in 1996. The company was Yahoo and the options would have been worth a few million today…. LOL!!!

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Absolutely. From my start in Independent television in the ‘80’s to cable in the 90’s to developing and building Fox Sports en Español as the leader in Spanish language cable television marketplace, I have always sought out the opportunity to be innovative and to develop new business segments.

About the Company
Fox Sports en Español features more than 1,500 hours of live, exclusive sports programming in Spanish and, with few exceptions, English SAP each year, including InterLigaTM, the Copa Santander Libertadores, Copa Nissan Sudamericana, and the FIFA Club World Cup soccer tournaments; the Major League Baseball regular season, divisional playoffs, All-Star Game and World Series; and premier combat sports including championship boxing from Mexico and the U.S, Ultimate Fighting Championship® and kickboxing. The channel reaches more than 13 million cable and satellite households in the country, of which 4.5 million are U.S. Hispanic households.

Fox Sports en Español is distributed by Fox Cable Networks Group and operated by Fox Pan American Sports LLC, an international sports programming and production entity jointly owned by HM Capital Partners, LLC and News Corporation's (NYSE: NWS) Fox Sports International. For more information, visit Fox Sports en Español online at foxsportsla.msn.com.

Marina Mendez > www.zeddigital.com

2008-04-01T11:27:00.000-04:00

Marina Mendez CEO Latin America and General Manager of Argentina. The company is a subsidiary of the Publicis Group

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
In accepting what I can and can't change about the situation and look for ways to embrace the challenge and learn from it. My faith, hard work and endless energy help a lot.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
I`m facing my biggest challenge at this moment. It's fantastic!!!

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I wouldn`t change my life. It's full of blessings.

What was your childhood ambition?
My childhood ambition was to become a teacher.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
The three people that I admire the most are Steve Jobs, Lance Armstrong and Mother Theresa.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
For meetings I enjoy the early lunches that combines people, healthy food and business.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
The biggest sacrifice was to leave my children couple of weeks for business development or training opportunities. But technology allows us stay toghether, no matter where I am.

What is your favorite quote?
Imagination is more important than knowledge.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Being unconventional is a unique state of mind for communication professionals. I think it`s absolutely neccesary to be unconventional.

Biggest mistake made?
My biggest mistake in the corporate world was to stay too much time at the same company. I needed to learn more!

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Yes. I've learned to simplified things. My leit motive: "happiness is about feeling well everyday". I transform the difficult into interesting with happiness, passion, intelligence and my characteristic drive. Once, a headhunter asked me how I managed to make things look beautiful.(and as my favorite book reads) "…And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye."

About the Company
Zed Digital is a leading digital media agency with a team of 600 specialists spanning 25 countries around the world. We deal with bluechip international clients such as HP, L'Oreal, and Toyota. We specialise in all digital platforms, from search engine marketing to mobile and user generated content. We are fully integrated within ZenithOptimedia, our parent company, and offer solutions which work seamlessly with our offline plans.

Contact Marina here

Marlene M Gonzalez > www.lifecoachinggroup.org

2008-03-28T16:39:00.000-04:00

Marlene M Gonzalez Life Coaching Group LLC President

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
Absolutely, I am very proud of my culture and heritage. My business is to help Latino become whole leaders by creating and sustaining a long-lasting vision for personal and professional success. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2004; The Latino population is roughly 44.3 million people or 14.8% of the US population, US’s largest minority group. Even though there has been a steady growth in the past few decades, we need to advocate for increasing representation in higher-level and better-paying jobs for Latinos in Corporate America.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
In accepting what I can and can’t change about the situation and look for ways to embrace the challenge and learn from it.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced?
There is a dicho in Spanish: “El que no habla, Dios no lo oye”, if “You would not say anything, people won’t hear you”; so my biggest challenge as a manager was to “Speak Up” and make my presence known throughout the organization.

If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
I would have pursued my Coaching and Consulting business sooner in to help shape the future Latinos Leaders and facilitate opportunities for them.

What was your childhood ambition?
My childhood ambition was to become an astronaut and fly to the moon.

Tell us about three people that you admire?
The three people that I admire the most are Jesus Christ for his humbleness and greatness; my dad for his endless teachings when I was growing up and my husband for his unconditional love, admiration and support.

For meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
For meetings I enjoy the early lunches that combines people, healthy food and business.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?

The biggest sacrifice was to leave my country Venezuela, my extended family and friends in search for better opportunities.

What is your favorite quote?
“You are the master of your own destiny” “ Tu eres el arquitecto de tu propio destino”.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Being unconventional is a unique state of mind for our professional coaching services by helping clients develop into successful leaders achieving more in their lives, careers or organizations.

Biggest mistake made?
My biggest mistake in the corporate world was to learn the hard way how to play the “Game of Politics” and choose my battles carefully.

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Yes. I’ve learned to simplified things and look at them in different angles, dimensions and levels of complexities to offer the best possible solutions to my clients.

About the Company
Life Coaching Group LLC, business model is to group highly experienced coaches; that specialize in partnering with Latina and Latino professionals to help them become whole leaders by creating and sustaining a long-lasting vision for personal and professional success.

Life Coaching Group LLC, Our services include professional coaching, Coaching for entrepreneurs and business leaders, Career Transition, Professional Assessment, network and mentoring groups, seminars, retreats, Books, Audio seminars, workshops, teleseminar, webinars, consulting and key note speaking arrangements. We help our clients develop into successful leaders who achieve more in their lives, both personally and professionally; by creating and sustaining a long-lasting vision for personal and professional success.

Contact Marlene at http://www.lifecoachinggroup.org/

Miguel Zabludovsky > www.slatenyc.com

2008-03-18T16:26:00.000-04:00

CEO of Slate NYC

Slatenyc is an ec0-luxury laundry and dry cleaning company in New York City.

What do you need to be an entrepreneur?
Money, or the ability to raise or attract it.

What inspired you to start your business?
A dissatisfaction with the product I was buying, combined with a profound change in my life (breaking up with a long-time girl friend), supported by the appearance in my life of someone who pushed me to accomplish my dreams.

How did you finance it?
Sold my car, invested my bar mitzvah savings, asked family and friends for the rest.

Being Hispanic…Does it have any influence on your business?
Yes. In everything from contact with employees, with customers, with suppliers, with the community to how long you take to pay your bills.

In the face of adversity, how do you decide to keep going?
It’s 90% inertia, 10% that the idea that the worst day as an entrepreneur is still better than the best day doing anything else.

What is the biggest challenge your business has faced?
Finding the right product/market fit.

If you could change one thing about your business, what would it be?
The learning curve rate. We should be constantly learning faster.

What was your childhood ambition?
To be the owner of my own company that had its headquarters in a glass building along Reforma (the main avenue in Mexico City)

Tell us about three entrepreneurs that you admire?
Steve Jobs, Ferdinand de Lesseps (builder of the Suez and Panama canals), and my dad.

For business meetings: breakfast, lunch, or dinner?
Coffee actually. I’d rather not do business when I eat.

What sacrifices on your personal life did you have to make in order to become a business success?
Less time with family. Less time for myself. Less time with my girlfriend. On the other hand, having little spare time makes you more efficient in the way you spend it.

What is your favorite quote?
It doesn’t matter what color is the cat as long as it catches the mouse.

Is it difficult to be unconventional?
Only if you care about the status quo.

Biggest mistake made?
I’ll give you three. Thinking small. Not being thorough enough with my own ideas and projections. Not minding the details. I can keep going for two more pages…

Do you consider yourself an innovator? Why?
Absolutely. Because we transformed an insight into the relationship between people and their clothes and turned it into a business within an industry that had been doing the same thing for 50 years.

Contact Miguel at http://www.slatenyc.com/