ave you ever met someone who embodies the grit of an athlete and the brilliance of a scientist? Brittany Simpson, my latest guest, is just that—a soccer coach and senior scientist at Pfizer with a foot in two incredibly competitive worlds. As she recounts her journey from the sun-soaked soccer fields in Florida to the cutting-edge labs where the COVID-19 vaccine was born, you’ll be inspired by her relentless pursuit of greatness despite the hurdles thrown her way.

Thomas Ray Garcia is a writer, educator, and entrepreneur from Pharr, Texas. He is the author of the award-winning short story collection, The River Runs: Stories and co-author of El Curso de la Raza: The Education of Aurelio Manuel Montemayor. He is the founder and board chair of the College Scholarship Leadership Access Program (CSLAP), a lead coordinator for the Hidalgo County Prosperity Task Force, an adjunct professor at South Texas College.

Navigating the biotech industry’s complex terrain takes more than just science smarts—it demands resilience, ethics, and a strong sense of self. Join me, Raul Lopez, as I sit down with a professional from a leading pharmaceutical company, who shares their journey from a humble upbringing to the boardrooms of corporate power. We tackle the issue of systematic racism and how it shapes experiences in the workplace, the strategic importance of code-switching, and the personal ethics involved in navigating a profit-driven industry.

Eriel Anchondo is a husband of 12 years to Jacqueline Anchondo. A proud father to three beautiful children, Eric, Michelle, and Christian. Eriel is also a chess aficionado with no hopes of ever becoming a grand master and a Mexican food enthusiast. Professionally he is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Franklin Street Properties, a public real estate investment trust focused on infill and central business district office properties in the US, sunbelt and mountain west.

Have you ever wondered how your roots and upbringing shape your life’s narrative? George Torres, a beacon of Latino culture and digital storytelling, joins me to unfold his compelling story of growth and impact. From the bustling streets of Brooklyn to the vibrant heart of Puerto Rican heritage, George’s experiences offer a rich tapestry of lessons on identity, resilience, and community.

Stepping into the spotlight, my fraternity brother John Gonzalez offers a raw and compelling glimpse into the life of a Latino artist navigating the complexities of identity and industry expectations. As we peel back the layers of his experiences, we unearth vital conversations about overcoming typecasting, financial hurdles in accessing dance education, and the broader socioeconomic challenges that often shadow minority success in the arts. John’s journey is a vibrant tapestry of grit and grace, a narrative that celebrates the strength found in mentorship and the relentless pursuit of dreams.