Inspired Conversations with Change Makers in Higher Education

Welcome to the season finale of Inspired Conversations, where we've embarked on an incredible journey of exploring inspiring stories and thought-provoking conversations. In this final episode of Season 1, we have the privilege of sitting down with an extraordinary individual who is making a profound impact in the world of higher education and mentorship. Our guest, Jennifer Cabrera, is a true trai...

This captivating episode introduces Sonia Salazar, a remarkable higher ed changemaker with a passion for mental health and education. Sonia's journey is deeply rooted in her Mexican heritage and the vibrant communities of Lincoln Heights, Bell, and Echo Park, California. As a bilingual mental health therapist, Sonia's work extends across generations, serving children, adolescents, and adults in va...

This captivating episode introduces Melissa Rodriguez, who shares incredible advice on how to stand out in your college application.  Having walked the first-generation path herself, Melissa earned dual bachelor's degrees in Philosophy and Gender Studies from California State University, Fullerton. However, her thirst for knowledge led her further, culminating in a master's degree in education fro...

Get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Zulma, a true trailblazer in the world of finance and community empowerment!  Join me as we dive into the life of Zulma, a Financial Analyst at BMO, where she's not only providing financial solutions but also leaving a lasting impact on her community. Beyond her professional role, Zulma's dedication to uplifting others shines through her work w...

Meet, Maria José, lovingly known as MJ. MJ is a true trailblazer in the realm of higher education, representing the spirit of resilience and determination. A first-generation Latina, she holds two degrees from Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles, in Counseling Psychology and Psychology with a focus on Child and Adolescent Psychology.  Currently serving as an Assistant Director of Undergradu...

This captivating episode features Audrey, the remarkable co-founder of Curious Cardinals. Join me as she takes us on a journey through her inspiring story as a first-time, female entrepreneur and her experiences speaking at prestigious events nationwide, advocating for project-based learning and near-peer mentorship. Audrey's dedication to empowering K-12 students to unlock their greatest potentia...

Tune in to this Inspired Conversation with Kenny Lopez, host of the More Than the Numbers Podcast. Born into a low-income Mexican household of 12 people, Kenny faced numerous challenges while growing up. From a young age, he understood the importance of hard work and determination. Despite living in a garage with his parents and two younger brothers until the age of 18, he was determined to create...

Tune in for this powerful conversation and Q&A with Jaclyn Rodríguez, a Professor Emerita of Psychology and Latino/a American Studies at Occidental College and a member of the Board of Directors at the Difficult Dialogues National Resource Center. In this podcast episode, you'll hear her inspiring story and gain valuable insights into the power of dialogue. Discover meaningful ways to engage in di...

Tune in for this powerful Conversation and Q&A with Maria Linares - member of California State University, Board of Trustees where we talk about navigating the Cal State System to ensure academic success.  Maria Linares, a Latina first-gen college grad, overcame adversity growing up in a working-class neighborhood in Santa Ana, marked by gang violence and shootings. Despite struggling with an undi...

Tune in to this powerful conversation with Economics Professor (Jesse Mora) and Alumna (Andrea Cova-Bernal) about Occidental College and why we believe liberal arts colleges are such a transformative places to earn your degree. During the interview, you'll hear our stories, as well as gain insight about what it's like to attend a liberal arts & science institution. Guest Bios:  Professor Jesse Mor...

In this introductory episode, you will learn more about this interactive podcast and the powerful change-makers inspirations behind the interviews. I will also discuss the WHY. Why was the podcast created and why are conversations like these so important, especially in this day and age post COVID and Affirmative Action.  Join me, Andrea Cova-Bernal, a College Access Counselor and Non-Profit Progra...