Latino Business Report

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/ 

The Politics of Racism

Episode 102 - Welcome to another powerful episode of Latino Business Report! Today, we’re sitting down with attorney and Texas State Representative Gene Wu from District 137 in Southwest Houston for a bold, unfiltered conversation on racism in America and its pervasive presence in our political landscape. Representative Wu shares candid insights on how racism has been weaponized in recent elections and the profound impact it’s having on our country. Join us as we dive into this critical, complex conversation that challenges the status quo—no holding back. Tune in, and let’s confront these issues head-on.

Día de los Muertos

Episode 101 - Join us as we explore the vibrant celebration of Día de los Muertos—a cherished Mexican holiday blending Indigenous traditions and Catholic beliefs. In this episode, Sylvia Orozco, Executive Director of Mexic-Arte Museum, takes us to the heart of Austin, where over 20,000 people from all walks of life embraced the festivities. Discover how this tradition, rooted in honoring life and death, is evolving into a shared cultural experience that bridges communities. Tune in for reflections, stories from attendees, and a deeper look at how Día de los Muertos invites us all to remember and celebrate loved ones passed.

From the Hood to the White House, to Millionaire Entrepreneur

Episode 100 - Get ready to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with our milestone 100th episode of Latino Business Report! We're bringing you an exciting conversation with the incredible Rebecca Contreras—a powerhouse Latina, entrepreneur, public servant, and author. Rebecca's inspiring journey from the hood to the White House to becoming a millionaire entrepreneur is the American Dream come to life. Tune in for an inspiring story of faith, determination, and success!
Website: Rebecca Contreras | Home
Lost Girl - https://www.rebeccacontreras.com/lostgirl 
RC Business Webinars - RC Business Webinar | Rebecca Contreras

The New Hispanic Immigrant Report

Episode 99 -
In this episode of the Latino Business Report, we explore the significant growth of the Hispanic and minority populations in the United States and the increasing need for multicultural marketing strategies.
Our guest, Jose Villa, is the founder and president of Sensis—the nation’s largest multicultural marketing agency—Jose brings over 25 years of experience in research, advertising, and digital communications.
For a Copy of the Report -https://www.nhi-report.com/
Company Website - https://www.sensisagency.com/ 
 

Mariachi Meets Rock: The Fusion Revolution

Episode 98 - Welcome to the Latino Business Report! Whether you're a first-time listener or a loyal fan, get ready for an exciting episode. Today, we're joined by Hayden Vitera to explore the captivating fusion of Mariachi and Rock. This unique blend creates a soul-stirring musical experience you won't want to miss. So, set aside your biases, open your mind, crank up the volume, and join us for the Mariachi Rock Revolution!
Mariachi Rock Revolution (tequilarockrevolution.com) 

Border Militarization: Impact on the Rio Grande River

Episode 97 - Welcome to this episode of Latino Business Report. Today, we delve into the impact of increased security measures along the U.S.-Mexico border on the Rio Grande, a vital waterway for many communities, ecosystems, and livelihoods.
Our guest is Dr. Adriana Martinez, a Professor at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with a PhD in Geography specializing in fluvial geomorphology. Together, we explore the unintended environmental consequences of tighter border control and discuss the steps needed to protect this crucial river while addressing security concerns.
Stay tuned for a thought-provoking discussion on balancing national security and environmental stewardship.

Mass Deportation: Why it's Not the Solution

Episode 96 - In this episode of Latino Business Report, we delve into the implications of Mass Deportation in the United States. As a central issue in the 2024 elections, some argue that deporting undocumented immigrants will help solve our nation's problems. However, substantial evidence suggests the United States could suffer significant consequences if mass deportations are implemented.
Listen in as we unpack the facts and perspectives surrounding this contentious topic. We encourage you to listen, conduct your own research, and form your own opinion.
While this podcast remains non-partisan, we strive to provide our listeners with diverse viewpoints on critical issues.

America's Most Famous Hispanic War Hero

Episode 95 - Welcome to the Latino Business Report, where we uncover the stories of extraordinary individuals. Today we honor the legendary Green Beret Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez, known by his call sign, TANGO MIKE MIKE.
While many know his name, the full extent of his incredible story is often untold. Roy Benavidez's acts of bravery and sacrifice during the Vietnam War make even the most dramatic war films pale in comparison. He stands as America's most famous Hispanic War Hero.
In this episode, we talk with Sergeant Benavidez's daughter, Yvette Benavidez Garcia, and William Surkey, an associate professor of history at the University of Pennsylvania and author of the upcoming book, The Ballad of Roy Benavidez.
Join us as we explore the life of a true American hero. Check the podcast notes for links to videos, books, articles, and other sources that detail the remarkable journey of Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez. Stay tuned for a tale of heroism that will leave you inspired.
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Order the Book – The Ballad of Roy Benavidez
The Ballad of Roy Benavidez: The Life and Times of America’s Most Famous Hispanic War Hero: Sturkey, William: 9781541600263: Amazon.com: Books
MSG Roy Benavidez speech 1991
MSG Roy Benavidez speech 1991 (youtube.com)
Reagan's Remarks on Presenting the Medal of Honor to Roy P. Benavidez — 2/24/81
Reagan's Remarks on Presenting the Medal of Honor to Roy P. Benavidez — 2/24/81 (youtube.com)
Roy Benavidez Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100038148445985&mibextid=ZbWKwL
Roy Benavidez YouTube Channel
https://youtube.com/@RoyPBenavidezTangoMikeMike?si=0PGUbTrIoLfRD_KO
 
“If the story of his heroism were a movie script, you would not believe it.” — Ronald Reagan
 

Backstage With A.J. Castillo

Episode 94 - In this episode of Latino Business Report, I sit down for a one-on-one interview with Grammy Award winner A.J. Castillo.
Renowned for his abilities on the accordion and his talent in Cumbia and Tejano music, A.J. is blazing trails in the music industry.
A.J. wears many hats as a recording artist, accordionist, singer, performer, producer, and he now has his own record label. But beyond his musical prowess, A.J.'s genuine warmth and kindness truly sets him apart.
In preparation for this interview, I had the privilege of spending time with A.J. He gave me a private tour of his new studio, we broke bread, and I even had the opportunity to meet his parents.
Getting to know him on a personal level revealed his unwavering dedication to his craft and his deep-rooted commitment to community service. It's no wonder he stands out among Tejano artists.
Join me as we go backstage for an intimate conversation with AJ Castillo – Trust me, it doesn't get any better than this!
Awards and recognitions
2010 - Tejano Music Awards Best New Male Artist 
2010 - Tejano Academy's Best Overall Accordion Player 
2010 - Tejano Academy's Best Emerging Artist/Group 
2017 - Latin Grammy Award winning Best Regional Song “Siempre Es Así”
2021 Premios Tejano Mundial Entertainer of the Year
2021 Tejano All Star Music Awards Male Entertainer of the Year