Join host Pablo Muñoz for a thought-provoking conversation with his featured guest — Lisette Nieves.

Lisette is the president of the Fund for the City of New York, advancing innovation across technology, policy, and community impact. She is a clinical professor at New York University (NYU) who co-founded the Center for Youth and the Future of Work and a groundbreaking doctoral program in Leadership and Innovation at NYU Steinhardt. Lisette is the author of two books on equity in work-based learning and youth career pathways.

1:03 - Introduction

2:06 - My Leadership Story

38:12 - Fund for the City of New York

46:28 - Work-Based Learning

1:11:09 - White House Commission

1:16:07 - Working for a Future

1:22:27 - My Past Should Not Be My Future

1:28:17 - Young Women of Color

1:35:24 - Invisible Labor, Visible Consequences

1:40:10 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Lisette Nieves is a visionary leader and a steadfast advocate for public service innovation. She has dedicated her career to pushing boundaries and redefining what’s possible in government and nonprofit effectiveness. Lisette advances leadership training and innovative research, and she ensures that the voices of young people are at the forefront of shaping workforce development opportunities.

Lisette is the author of two influential books: Working for a Future: Equity and Access in Work-Based Learning for Young People and Working to Learn: Disrupting the Divide between College and Career Pathways for Young People. She is a Truman Scholar, Rhodes Scholar, Aspen Pahara Fellow, and Richard P. Nathan Public Policy Fellow. Lisette was appointed to the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics and the Board of AmeriCorps.

Lisette received a bachelor’s degree from Brooklyn College. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Oxford and a master’s degree in public administration from Princeton University. Lisette earned a doctorate with distinction in higher education management from the University of Pennsylvania.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisette-nieves-5414395

Email: lnieves@fcny.org

Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards.

Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm.

For additional information visit: themunozcompany.com

Purchase The Leader’s Algorithm: themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo: themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email: pablo@themunozcompany.com

Join host Pablo Muñoz for an uplifting conversation with his featured guest — Sonia Ruiz.

Sonia is a proud Latina leader who has dedicated her life to serving others. She is an equity-minded leader who believes that representation matters and that all students deserve to be seen, valued, and supported. Sonia was named the 2025 Illinois Middle School Principal of the Year and the 2025 NAESP National Distinguished Principal of the Year.

1:03 - Introduction

2:09 - My Leadership Story

19:25 - Principal of the Year

24:28 - Latina Leaders

28:47 - Assistant Principal

33:08 - You Matter, You Belong

35:57 - Representation Matters

39:20 - Guiding Principles

Sonia Ruiz is the principal of Jane Addams Middle School at the Valley View School District 365U in Illinois, where her leadership has led the school to Exemplary Status for three consecutive years. She has over two decades of experience dedicated to fostering inclusive, high-achieving school communities. Sonia serves as the diversity and equity chairwoman for the Illinois Principals Association (IPA).

Sonia received a bachelor’s degree in applied psychology and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She holds a second master’s degree in school leadership from Concordia University Chicago. Sonia is working on her doctorate in educational administration and foundations at Illinois State University.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sonia-ruiz-00016b14b

Email: ruizse@vvsd.org

Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards.

Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm.

For additional information visit: themunozcompany.com

Purchase The Leader’s Algorithm: themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo: themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email: pablo@themunozcompany.com

Join host Pablo Muñoz for a fascinating conversation with his featured guest — Patricia Hurrieta.

Patricia offers a unique "full-circle" perspective as a biliterate public school educator who has served in every capacity from custodian to successful 15-year principal. She is currently spearheading the implementation of La Raza Report to dismantle the "Brown Ceiling" and ensure Latine students, staff, and families are reflected in the system's success. Patricia is the director of the Latine Student Success (LSS) team and a 30-year veteran leader of the Denver Public Schools (DPS).

1:03 - Introduction

2:11 - My Leadership Story

31:06 - La Raza Report

36:57 - Latine Student Success

40:57 - Brown Ceiling

44:12 - Principal

48:58 - Culture, Equity, and Leadership

52:06 - Momentum and Execution

54:30 - Biliteracy and Belonging

58:32 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Patricia Hurrieta uses her extensive culturally responsive leadership expertise to address La Raza Report and Latine family needs. She was the executive director of culture, equity, and leadership and the principal of multiple schools. Patricia helped establish the Seal of Biliteracy at the district and state levels with a four-district Colorado team, officially recognizing students' biliteracy.

Patricia received a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science from Metropolitan State College of Denver. She holds a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Colorado at Denver. Patricia earned a doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Denver.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/phurrieta

Website: dpsk12.org/page/la-raza

Email: phurrie@dpsk12.net

Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards.

Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm.

For additional information visit: themunozcompany.com

Purchase The Leader’s Algorithm: themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo: themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email: pablo@themunozcompany.com

Join host Pablo Muñoz for a passionate conversation with his featured guest — Evelyn Robles-Rivas.

Evelyn is a proud first-generation Latina from Puerto Rico, who has lived in Connecticut for 33 years. She is the director of multilingual learners programs for the New Haven Public Schools in Connecticut. Evelyn champions educational equity, ensuring that multilingual learners receive high-quality instruction and inclusive support.

1:03 - Introduction

2:07 - My Leadership Story

41:02 - Multilingual Learners

44:07 - Blue Ribbon School

49:31 - Latina Leaders

55:23 - Successful Latinas

57:00 - Cultural Heritage

59:30 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Evelyn Robles-Rivas is the co-chair of the Connecticut Administrators of Programs for English Language Learners (CAPELL) and past president of the Connecticut Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (CALAS). She worked for six years as the supervisor of language and community partnerships for the Meriden Public Schools in Connecticut, and she is the former principal at Worthington Hooker School in New Haven, where she worked for 12 years. Evelyn has contributed significantly to students’ linguistic and academic success by creating systems that support and provide high-quality instructional programs for all students.

Evelyn received a bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting from la Universidad de Puerto Rico. She earned a master’s degree in bilingual and bicultural education and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from the University of Connecticut. Evelyn also completed an executive leadership program to meet the superintendent of schools’ certification requirements.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/evelyn-robles-rivas-ph-d-b2b01a3b

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evelyn.roblesrivas

Email: evelyn.robles-rivas@new-haven.k12.ct.us

Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards.

Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm.

For additional information visit: themunozcompany.com

Purchase The Leader’s Algorithm: themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo: themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email: pablo@themunozcompany.com

Join host Pablo Muñoz for an amazing conversation with his featured guest — Olga Romero.

Olga is the executive director of curriculum and instruction for Irving Independent School District in Texas, where she leads districtwide instructional strategy, curriculum design, and teacher support systems. She is dedicated to transforming learning environments and driving student success at scale. Olga brings a blend of vision, practicality, and grounded leadership that keeps teams focused, supported, and moving forward together.

1:03 - Introduction

2:05 - My Leadership Story

35:37 - Latina Leaders

40:55 - Curriculum and Instruction

43:47 - Dallas Hybrid Prep

50:14 - Secondary Schools Leadership

55:28 - Principal

59:51 - Southwest Airlines

1:01:57 - Puerto Rico

1:06:53 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Olga Romero is an instructional leader whose work is anchored in purpose, powered by people, and strengthened through intentional practice. Her leadership focuses on building aligned systems that ensure every classroom has high-quality materials, strong instructional routines, and equitable access to meaningful learning. Olga previously served as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, principal, and executive director for the Dallas and Fort Worth school districts.

Olga received a bachelor’s degree in public communications, photojournalism, and media writing from la Universidad de Puerto Rico. She holds two master’s degrees, one in public relations and media writing from la Universidad del Sagrado Corazón and one in urban school leadership from Southern Methodist University. Olga also earned a doctorate in educational leadership and policy from Southern Methodist University.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-olga-romero-22b836b

Email: principalromero@gmail.com

Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards.

Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm.

For additional information visit: themunozcompany.com

Purchase The Leader’s Algorithm: themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo: themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email: pablo@themunozcompany.com

Join host Pablo Muñoz for an interesting conversation with his featured guest — Maribel Olivero.

Maribel is the president of the Connecticut Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (CALAS) and the director of equity and languages at the Connecticut Department of Education. She was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in Hartford, Connecticut. Maribel has been an educator for more than 20 years, and her commitment to supporting students is driven by her experiences as a student in Connecticut.

1:03 - Introduction

2:03 - My Leadership Story

27:13 - Connecticut Department of Education

30:11 - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

36:35 - Principal

42:18 - Latina Leaders

47:37 - Bilingual Education, ESOL, and World Languages

52:12 - Believe in Me

57:34 - Dean of Students

1:02:20 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Maribel Olivero has made significant contributions to the field of public education through her extensive experience and unwavering commitment to student success. Her deep knowledge and passion for education make her a respected leader and advocate for underserved populations. Maribel previously worked at the New London Public Schools in Connecticut as a teacher, dean, principal, and director.

Maribel received a bachelor’s degree in human development and family relations and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Connecticut. She earned a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Hartford. Maribel also holds a sixth-year diploma in educational leadership from the University of Connecticut.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-maribel-olivero-5b18ab67

Website: calas-ct.org/

Email: mjolivero23@gmail.com

Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards.

Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm.

For additional information visit: themunozcompany.com

Purchase The Leader’s Algorithm: themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo: themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email: pablo@themunozcompany.com

Join host Pablo Muñoz for an enriching conversation with his featured guest — Hector Chaira.

Hector is a native of the Boyle Heights neighborhood in Los Angeles, California. He is the director of education programs for the Youth Cinema Project at the Latino Film Institute, which uses arts and media to help young people discover their voice, build confidence, and shape their own stories. He drives curriculum, program, and training expansion that empowers youth and builds pathways to thriving futures.

1:03 - Introduction

2:06 - My Leadership Story

28:00 - Latino Film Institute

33:06 - Youth Cinema Project

44:09 - City Charter Schools

49:24 - Woodcraft Rangers

52:10 - CoachArt

54:11 - We Want to Dance LA

57:33 - Guiding Principles

Hector Chaira is a nonprofit leader with more than 17 years of experience working across youth development, education, and community-based programs. He leads with collaboration, consistency, and a strong sense of purpose. Hector is rooted in community and informed by grassroots action.

Hector previously worked at City Charter Schools, Woodcraft Rangers, and CoachArt. He established and directed We Want to Dance LA, a cultural dance company. Hector received a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Cal State LA.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hector-chaira-64869149

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/latinofilminstitute/

Website: latinofilm.org/

Website: latinofilm.org/youth-cinema-project-2/

Instagram: instagram.com/latinofilminstitute_/

Email: loraine@latinofilm.org

Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards.

Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm.

For additional information visit: themunozcompany.com

Purchase The Leader’s Algorithm: themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo: themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email: pablo@themunozcompany.com

Join host Pablo Muñoz for an exceptional conversation with his featured guest — Veronica Benavides.

Veronica has dedicated her career to advancing identity, language, and learning as a teacher, Fulbright scholar, Harvard researcher, coach, and leader. She champions heritage language reclamation through innovative tools for children, educators, and families. Veronica is the founder and CEO of Bilingual Generation.

1:03 - Introduction

2:00 - My Leadership Story

26:09 - Bilingual Generation

30:15 - Harvard Kennedy School

32:17 - Bilingualism Today

35:04 - Onward Leadership

36:39 - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

54:41 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Veronica Benavides is a visionary leader who seeks to reverse the trend of language loss across the generations. She was a program architect at Onward, an executive director for the Center on Culture, Race, and Equity (CCRE) at Bank Street College, and a director for The Leadership Academy at the New York City Aspiring School Principals program. Veronica has extensive experience with diversity, equity, and inclusion training through the National Equity Project and the Pacific Educational Group.

Veronica received a bachelor’s degree in government honors and philosophy from The University of Texas at Austin. She holds a master’s degree in the science of teaching from Fordham University. Veronica earned a doctorate in education leadership from Harvard University.

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/veronicabenavides

Website: bilingualgeneration.com/

Instagram: instagram.com/wearebilingualgeneration/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/we-are-bilingual-generation/

Email: vero@bilingualgeneration.com

Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards.

Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm.

For additional information visit: themunozcompany.com

Purchase The Leader’s Algorithm: themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo: themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email: pablo@themunozcompany.com