In this episode of The Attitude Lounge, AdDiTude sits down with Carol Obando-Derstine, Democratic Candidate for Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District, whose life story is rooted in resilience, service, and purpose.

At just three years old, Carol immigrated with her family from Colombia to the United States in search of a better life. That journey shaped her understanding of struggle, opportunity, and the responsibility to give back. Over the past two decades, she has dedicated her life to serving the Lehigh Valley as an engineer advocate, educator, mobile therapist, and bilingual community leader; meeting people where they are and helping them navigate systems that too often leave families behind.

Carol’s passion goes beyond policy. It’s personal! From advocating for equitable education and accessible mental health care to supporting working families, immigrants, and underserved communities, her work is grounded in lived experience and deep empathy. She understands the challenges facing our region because she’s been walking alongside the people facing them.

Dolores Huertas said it best in one of her famous quotes...
"Walk the street with us into history. Get off the sidewalk"

This conversation explores what it means to turn lived experience into leadership, why representation matters, and how compassion, education, and advocacy can shape a more inclusive future. You can’t search for a life you haven’t named. Carol Obando-Derstine didn't just named her life, she prepared for it too! She isn’t just running for office, she’s running to make a real difference.

*Links Mentioned in the episode: Carol Obando-Derstine website, Facebook, Instagram, and X

Until then, Stay Connected! Live a life well-lived through the magic of doing what you love. And that looks different for everyone.

Follow me at all my platforms! The Attitude Lounge Podcast Website