Latino Business Report

Sgt. Q: From the Battlefield to Business – A Story of Redemption and Purpose

Episode 112 -This week on Latino Business Report, we bring you the incredible    journey of Aaron Quinonez — better known as Sgt. Q. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, PTSD survivor, and faith-driven entrepreneur, Sgt. Q has turned trauma into triumph by building not only homes for the poor but also successful businesses that empower others.
Raised in chaos and hardship, Aaron found purpose after nearly ending his own life. Through faith, service, and grit, he transformed his pain into action — founding Q Missions, launching impactful ventures, and becoming a beacon of hope for veterans and entrepreneurs alike.
📌 Episode Notes:Guest: Aaron Quinonez (Sgt. Q)
Marine Corps Veteran & PTSD advocate
Founder of Q Missions
Serial entrepreneur & author
Speaker, father, and servant leader
Topics Covered:
Overcoming a traumatic childhood and invisible wounds of war
Spiritual breakthrough and healing through service
Launching mission-driven businesses with impact
Lessons on resilience, leadership, and finding purpose in business
Using entrepreneurship as a tool for recovery and community change
💡 Takeaway:Sgt. Q’s story is proof that even in your darkest hour, you can rise — not just to survive, but to build a life, a legacy, and businesses that serve others.
 
Healing Thru Service: The Warrior's Guidebook to Overcoming Trauma 
Healing Thru Service: The Warrior's Guidebook to Overcoming Trauma: Q, Sgt: 9781646451524: Amazon.com: Books
 
 

Modern Slavery: The Human Trafficking Crisis

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

Modernizing Texas Tax Policy: How HB 2428 Empowers Retailers

Episode 110 – Fairness for Small Biz: The Fight for HB 2428 in TexasLatino Business Report
Welcome to the show! In this episode, we’re diving into a critical conversation unfolding right here in Texas—one that could reshape how small businesses across the state operate and survive.
We’re joined by two powerhouse guests:
🔹 Eddie Lucio III – Former State Representative who served eight terms representing House District 38. During his time in the Legislature, he chaired key committees and led impactful work on education, healthcare, water security, and consumer protections. Now, he’s a practicing attorney, public affairs expert, and small business owner.
🔹 Corey Ticknor – A seasoned government relations professional with over a decade of experience in Texas politics. From his early days as a senior legislative staffer to his current role as a lobbyist and policy strategist, Corey has helped pass over 100 bills across a wide range of issues, from broadband to public safety.
At the heart of this conversation is House Bill 2428 – The Fair Business Reimbursement Act, led by the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) and a strong coalition of business organizations.
For years, small and minority-owned businesses in Texas have shouldered the burden of being unpaid tax collectors—swallowing rising credit card fees that eat into already razor-thin margins. HB 2428 is a push for fairness, not tax cuts. It’s about modernizing the system and ensuring small businesses can continue to compete and thrive.
In this episode:
What exactly is HB 2428—and why is it gaining momentum now?
The hidden cost of swipe fees on small businesses
Who’s supporting the bill—and who’s standing in the way
What’s at stake for the future of doing business in Texas
🎧 Stick around as we unpack the bill, the movement behind it, and why this moment matters more than ever for entrepreneurs across the state.

Nuestro Stories: Where Our Heritage Lives Daily

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

Your New Favorite Cocktail

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

8 Steps to Achieve Your Goals: A Roadmap to Success

Episode 107 – Kickstarting 2025 with Purpose and ResilienceHappy New Year! To start 2025 off right, The Latino Business Report is diving into a topic that resonates with everyone: New Year’s resolutions and goal setting. While starting fresh is always exciting, staying committed to your goals can be a challenge.
That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome back psychotherapist Laura Ramirez, one of our most insightful and inspiring guests. Laura will explore the critical role mental health plays in achieving your aspirations and remind us that success isn’t a race—it’s a process.
So, grab your notebook, get comfortable, and join us as we unpack practical strategies to make 2025 the year you turn your resolutions into lasting achievements. Let’s make it happen together!
Website - Vivid Life Therapy | mental health 

Protect Yourself and Your Valuables: Don't Fall Victim This Holiday Season

Episode 106 - It’s the holidays—a time for joy, celebration, and... rising crime. From theft and car break-ins to stolen gifts and robberies, the season brings risks we can’t ignore.
In this episode of Latino Business Report, Austin Police Officer Vennessa Jimenez—an Army veteran and dedicated law enforcement professional—shares practical tips and real-life scenarios to help you stay vigilant and protect yourself and your property this holiday season.
Don’t miss this essential conversation on staying safe during the festivities!

Holiday Blues: Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.)

Episode 105 - For some, this isn’t the most wonderful time of the year. If you’ve ever felt a lingering sadness or unexplained blues during the winter months, you’re not alone.
In today’s episode, we’re diving into Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.), a real condition that impacts countless people. Our favorite licensed psychotherapist, Laura Ramirez, joins us once again to explore what S.A.D. is, why it happens, and—most importantly—practical strategies to help you manage and overcome it.
Tune in for an insightful and compassionate conversation that just might brighten your season!

Holiday Safety 101: Avoiding Fires and Injuries This Season

Episode 104 - Deep-frying a turkey is a Thanksgiving favorite, but it’s not without risks. In this episode, we chat with Frank Machuca, a Lowes store manager, about the fiery dangers of deep-frying and how to stay safe. From avoiding oil spills to preventing fire hazards, we’ll share essential tips for a delicious and disaster-free holiday—plus bonus advice to keep your Christmas merry and bright!

Sin Padres, Ni Papeles

Episode 103 - In this episode, we explore the rising number of children seeking safety and a better life in the United States. With around 140,000 children apprehended at the border each year, experts estimate that three more make it for every one caught.
Our guest, Stephanie Canzales, a researcher and professor at UC Berkeley, shares insights from her book, Sin Padres, Ni Papeles: Unaccompanied Migrant Youth Coming of Age in the United States. Tune in to hear the poignant stories of these brave young migrants.
https://bookshop.org/ 
https://www.sinpadresnipapeles.com/