Leaders On the Mic

Nessa Diosdado | Leaders On the Mic

In this episode, host Ana Valdez, President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative, sits down with digital creator, influencer, and storyteller Nessa Diosdado.
Known for her authentic POV storytelling and powerful presence across social platforms and civil and political advocacy, Nessa has emerged as a leading Gen-Z voice exploring identity, culture, and the lived experiences of young Latinos navigating life in the U.S. Through short-form video, personal narrative, and digital advocacy, she connects millions by speaking honestly and boldly about visibility, representation, and belonging.
Nessa’s journey reflects the growing influence of U.S. Latina creators who are shaping culture in real time, reclaiming narrative power, and using digital platforms to challenge stereotypes while building community.
Join us as Nessa shares how she found her voice online, why authenticity resonates more than perfection, and how U.S. Latino creators can use storytelling to influence culture, spark dialogue, and expand opportunity for the next generation.

Jessica Byrd | Leaders On the Mic

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the LDC) sits down with Jessica Santiago Byrd, Multicultural Marketing Manager at IKEA U.S., and a visionary leader shaping how major brands authentically connect with diverse communities. With a career devoted to inclusive storytelling and cultural insight, Jessica has led groundbreaking work; including the launch of IKEA’s U.S. Spanish-language website and national in-language campaigns that elevate the voices and needs of Latino consumers.
Jessica’s approach is rooted in a belief that representation must be meaningful, data-driven, and community-informed. Her work is redefining what it looks like when a global company shows up for multicultural audiences, not as an afterthought, but as a core part of its brand DNA.
Join us as Jessica shares her journey into multicultural marketing, why Latino consumers deserve intentional and culturally fluent engagement, and how brands can create authentic connections that go far beyond translation. Her insights offer a roadmap for how corporate America can respect, understand, and genuinely reflect the communities it serves.

Che Guerrero | Leaders On the Mic

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the LDC) sits down with comedian, writer, investigative storyteller, and social commentator Che Guerrero. Known for blending humor with sharp social analysis, Che has become a leading voice on issues surrounding immigration, identity, and the undocumented experience, using storytelling to spark dialogue, challenge stereotypes, and build community across platforms.
Through his viral comedy, digital journalism, and public storytelling, Che brings a unique and powerful perspective on how Latinos can reclaim narrative power in media. His journey highlights the importance of authentic voices that speak truthfully, and often hilariously, about the lived realities of our community.

Rick Telles | Leaders On the Mic

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the LDC) sits down with acclaimed unscripted-television producer and executive producer Rick Telles. Rick is best known as the Executive Producer of the recent Amazon Prime hit feature film A Million Miles Away, starring Michael Peña, and he brings decades of experience in forging compelling unscripted content.
Over his career, Rick has helped launch series such as the pioneering reality show The Surreal Life and served as executive producer on shows including Next Action Star, Haunted Collector and America’s Worst Driver. Join us as Rick shares how his journey has underscored the importance of authentic Latino storytelling, not just as a matter of cultural significance, but as one of commercial and creative impact. 

Brenden Perez | Leaders On the Mic

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative) sits down with Brenden Pérez, a rising Mexican-Taiwanese violinist and social media creator redefining what it means to be a modern Latino artist, activist, and leader.
From classical roots to viral fame, Brenden shares how he’s breaking stereotypes, blending cultures, and using music to amplify representation and pride.

Alex Valdez & Pablo De la Fuente | Leaders On the Mic

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative) sits down with Alex Valdez and Pablo De la Fuente, the directors of a new and inspiring nature documentary film called The Power of One from in which they plan to springboard a career where they to the wildest corners of the planet, teaming up with bold eco-heroes, who are bringing endangered ecosystems back to life. Together, they embark on thrilling expeditions and race to restore nature; proving that saving the world starts with THE POWER OF ONE.

Ada Cruz | Leaders On the Mic

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative) sits down with Ada Cruz, an inspiring Latina influencer and voice redefining the immigrant journey of Latinos in America.
Ada shares the powerful story of her and her family, and how they overcame countless hardships that paid off immensely when she was accepted into Harvard and which she now uses as inspiration for her career in criminal law.

Christian Maldonado | Leaders On the Mic

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative) sits down with Christian Maldonado, one of the most dynamic Latino influencers using digital platforms to amplify culture, humor, and authentic representation.
Christian shares his journey from creating viral content to becoming a powerful voice for Latino identity online, reflecting on how storytelling, comedy, and community can shift narratives and inspire pride across generations.

Cristo Fernández | Leaders On the Mic

In this episode, host Ana Valdez (President & CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative) sits down with Cristo Fernández, a prominent Latino actor known for his roles in Ted Lasso and Una Pequeña Confusión.
Cristo shares his experiences in representing Latino culture through a hit show around the world and the key cultural advantages that his heritage has brought him.

Fernanda Cortes | Leaders On the Mic

On our premiere episode of Leaders On the Mic, prominent social media influencer Fernanda Cortes joins our host, Ana Valdez, to discuss how to lead a career where millions of people are influenced by your work. Fernanda shares her journey as a Latina creator, the challenges and opportunities of building an authentic online presence, and how she uses her platform to elevate Latino voices, challenge stereotypes, and even teach about history!