In a recent episode of The Face of Latina Professionals, hosted by the vibrant Abby Torres, listeners were treated to an inspiring conversation with Rosie Gonzalez, Brookfield’s number one real estate broker. Rosie's journey is not just a story of professional success but a beacon of personal triumph, resilience, and the power of faith.

Abby, known for her ability to draw out the profound and personal from her guests, navigated the conversation through Rosie's remarkable life and career. Rosie’s narrative is a testament to the belief that with determination, learning, and a bit of help from above, anything is possible.

Rosie’s entry into real estate was born from necessity—a "desperate moment" as she calls it, which led her to sell her own home and quickly become busy with clients. Her story resonates with many who find their calling in unexpected circumstances. "I became a real estate agent in a desperate moment... I sold my house and immediately I got busy right away," Rosie shares, highlighting the serendipity in her path to becoming a realtor.

What sets Rosie apart is not just her success but her approach to business and life. She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, a strategy that propelled her to the top of her field within three years. But it's her focus on relationships, trust, and treating clients like family that truly defines her success. "I'm friends with all of my clients," Rosie remarks, underlining the depth of her connections.

Abby expertly extracts lessons from Rosie's experiences, making it clear that success in real estate—or any field—goes beyond just transactions. It's about creating genuine relationships, understanding the needs of those you serve, and always striving to provide value.

One of the most poignant moments in their conversation comes when Rosie discusses the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life, especially as a mother.

She speaks candidly about the necessity of delegation and trust in God's plan, offering a powerful message for anyone striving to balance professional ambitions with personal responsibilities. "God always has a plan... I'm a warrior," Rosie admits, sharing her internal battles and the solace she finds in faith.

Abby and Rosie's dialogue transcends the specifics of real estate, touching on universal themes of hard work, family, faith, and the journey toward fulfilling one's potential. Through Abby's skillful interviewing, listeners gain insights into not only becoming successful in their careers but also in leading a balanced, meaningful life.

The essence of Rosie and Abby's conversation is a reminder that your path may be fraught with challenges, but with determination, faith, and a willingness to learn and adapt, you too can achieve greatness. Let their discussion inspire you to pursue your passions, value your relationships, and never underestimate the power of a positive mindset and a supportive community.

In the latest episode of "The Face of Latina Professionals," Jasmine Hernandez, the CEO and founder of Ubuntu Strategies, captivates listeners with her journey from a Chicago neighborhood to the pinnacle of entrepreneurial success. Her story, infused with wisdom, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth, offers profound insights and inspiration.

Raised in Chicago’s diverse landscapes, Jasmine's roots in Hermosa and Humboldt Park shaped her early worldview. Her academic journey at NOBLE, a network of charter schools, laid the foundation for her commitment to education and mentorship. "They supported my transition from high school to college, being first-generation... ensuring I was provided the most opportunities," Jasmine recalls. This support system played a critical role in her pursuit of higher education, studying biology and environmental studies with a focus on education.

Her career began with a focus on educational support for students like herself, evolving into roles like assistant dean and alumni counselor. Jasmine’s reflection on her identity also played a pivotal role. "I've actually felt almost this disconnect with being Latina and being able to identify as Puerto Rican," she shares. This personal exploration of cultural identity and heritage is a testament to the complex nature of self-identification many Latinas navigate.

Transitioning from education to entrepreneurship, Jasmine’s path was anything but linear. Facing challenges head-on, she embraced each obstacle as a learning opportunity. "I think the biggest thing...is to bet on your life's work," she advises. This mindset shift is vital for anyone considering entrepreneurship, especially for those in the Latina community, often grappling with traditional expectations and fear of the unknown.

Jasmine's story is a beacon for embracing one's identity, culture, and personal aspirations. Her experience in Guatemala, learning Spanish and immersing herself in a different Latino culture, was transformative. "It allowed me to tap into the Spanish I wanted to learn and really tighten it up," she reflects.

Her entrepreneurial journey with Ubuntu Strategies symbolizes her belief in human connection over labels. The name 'Ubuntu', embodying community and mutual support, mirrors Jasmine's philosophy in business and life.

Throughout the podcast, Jasmine offers invaluable advice for aspiring Latina professionals. Emphasizing the importance of mentorship, she shares, "It's really just sharing your experience and then allowing them to take what they see as valuable." This approach highlights the significance of learning from others' experiences, a crucial element for personal and professional growth.

Jasmine Hernandez's journey is more than an entrepreneurial success story; it's a narrative of identity, resilience, and empowerment. Her experiences, insights, and advice serve as a guiding light for anyone aspiring to make a mark in their field, particularly for those in the Latina community.

In a recent episode of 'The Face of Latina Professionals Podcast,' we had the pleasure of welcoming Samantha Alvarez, a vibrant voice resonating with the power of cultural identity and self-discovery. Samantha's journey isn't just a narrative; it's a beacon for anyone grappling with their identity and purpose.

Born and raised in Chicago, Samantha proudly embraces her Puerto Rican and Honduran heritage. Her story unfolds like a vibrant tapestry, interweaving threads of culture, resilience, and aspiration.

Growing up in Humboldt Park, she was deeply rooted in the Puerto Rican community, a cultural immersion that profoundly shaped her identity. Yet, it was her exploration of her Honduran roots in her teens that broadened her understanding of her multifaceted identity.

Samantha's journey to Honduras at 17 was a pivotal moment. “It was so heartwarming just to meet Tias and Tios and see where my mom grew up,” she recalls. This trip was not just a physical journey but a profound dive into the depths of her heritage, enriching her sense of self.

A crucial aspect of Samantha's story is her relationship with language. Despite growing up in a predominantly English-speaking environment, she mastered Spanish, thanks to her high school AP Spanish teacher. "She really just broke it down for me,” Samantha shares.

Her trilingual proficiency in English, Spanish, and the unique colloquialisms of her cultures is more than linguistic ability; it's a bridge connecting her to her roots and to diverse communities.

Samantha's professional journey is equally compelling. Her transition from a non-profit enthusiast to a CEO of a marketing company, Inspir8, highlights her adaptability and commitment to growth. Inspir8, born out of a profound moment of realization in Medellin, Colombia, symbolizes Samantha's dedication to empowering small businesses with her creative and business acumen.

But her path wasn't devoid of challenges. Samantha's resilience in the face of domestic violence both at home and in intimate relationships is a testament to her strength. She turns her pain into purpose, channeling her experiences to empower other women. “It's my heart where I just really want to empower women that are in those situations,” she asserts, showcasing her unwavering commitment to uplift others.

As Samantha shares her story, it's clear that her journey is more than a personal narrative; it's a roadmap for embracing one's heritage, facing challenges with resilience, and transforming pain into purpose. Her life is a lesson in finding one's niche, being true to oneself, and relentlessly pursuing one's passions.