Career Talk With OG

What if your business professor doubled as your career coach? In this episode, I sit down with Philip Tran, a seasoned community college professor and entrepreneur to talk about how the lessons from class can launch your career. Whether you’re a student or professional, this episode is packed with practical wisdom.

In this episode, I team up with Stephanie Feger from the Orange Coast Regional Consortium at the 2025 Spring CCCAOE Conference to explore how Vision 2030 is transforming student success.

We dive into our collaboration to build a culturally grounded career readiness framework using Aspira’s Empowering Scholars Program and real-time labor market data. We highlight a regional publication featuring best practices from OC counselors helping students craft powerful first-gen career narratives, and demo OC Works, a dynamic suite of tools including a Sector Explorer, Skills Explorer, Employer Map, and Living Wage Dashboard.

What does it mean to lead with corazón? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Blanca Baltazar-Sabbah, a first-generation Latina leader whose 25-year journey in public education—from teacher and counselor to district leadership—has been fueled by equity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to student success.

The daughter of field and cannery workers in the Pajaro Valley, Dr. Baltazar-Sabbah knows firsthand the transformative power of education and community involvement. Now, as VP of Student Services, she continues to champion inclusive learning environments that prioritize academic excellence and student well-being.

Esta es una platica que dí para Goshen College. Hablo sobre avanzar en nuestras carreras requiere que salgamos de nuestra zona de confort, asumamos riesgos y aceptemos tanto los éxitos como los fracasos con resiliencia. Es a través de estas experiencias que crecemos, aprendemos y alcanzamos nuestro máximo potencial.

This is a talk I gave for Goshen College. I talk about how advancing in our careers requires us to step out of our comfort zone, take risks, and embrace both success and failure with resilience. It is through these experiences that we grow, learn, and reach our full potential.

AI is revolutionizing the way we search for jobs, craft resumes, and prepare for interviews. Whether you’re looking for your next big opportunity or want to sharpen your job search strategy, AI tools can give you a powerful edge.

In this episode, I break down how to:

- AI fundamentals for job searchingLeverage

- Using AI to craft your career story

- Tips to create and promote your professional brand

- How to research employers and learn about company culture and career growth potential

- Using AI to network

- How to use AI to create your own career coach

In this episode, I'm joined Mike Liu, Founder of FreeFuse, Dale Brown, Founder of Detroit Urban Survival Training, and the Honorable Dr. Dietrich von Biedenfeld: A seasoned legal expert dedicated to advocating for equity and opportunity.

We dive into the power of personalization in helping students design their unique career paths. Our panel of experts share their insights, experiences, and innovative approaches to empowering the next generation with tools for safety, confidence, and resilience. We explore how technology, mindset, and tailored strategies can equip students to navigate today’s competitive job market with confidence and purpose.

In this episode, we dive into the unique pressures faced by first-generation professionals, the constant drive to achieve perfection. Born from a heartfelt desire to honor our family’s sacrifices and to be the role model we never had, this pursuit often comes with its own set of challenges. Dr. Salvador Bueno helps us unpack these expectations, shares personal stories, and explores strategies to navigate the balance between ambition, authenticity, and self-care. Whether you’re striving for excellence or simply trying to find your own path, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, Aspira's Chief Programming Officer, Angelica Garcia, shares what owning your space means to her as a Gen Z Latina. She shares her career journey and what it means to be Mexican Filipina in the workplace.

Tune in to this empowering keynote I gave to Dallas College. In this episode we dive into discovering your greatest asset: your identity. We’ll explore how embracing your cultural wealth, life experiences, and unique “superpower” can transform your professional journey. Learn how to take bold risks, build unshakable resilience, and unlock your full potential.

This episode is a workshop I did for jobseekers at the Orange Workforce Alliance Career Expo. I focus on how to build a standout personal brand, optimize your LinkedIn profile and network effectively. You’ll gain the skills to attract opportunities, connect with industry leaders, and position yourself as a top candidate.

In this episode, Oscar has a thought-provoking discussion on common limiting beliefs that hold back Latinos, particularly in their professional lives. I challenge Latinos to break free from outdated cultural norms and take a more empowered approach to leadership and personal growth.

Crafting an effective elevator pitch is crucial for job seekers. In today's episode we explore practical strategies and real-world examples to help you create a compelling elevator pitch that captures attention and leaves a lasting impression.

Your resume is your ticket to that coveted interview. Are you ready to take your resume from ordinary to extraordinary? Join us in this insightful podcast as expert resume writer, Marisol Maloney, shares the art of crafting a winning resume. She share practical strategies to help you stand out in a competitive job market.

Today's episode is 1 of 2 on how to add your sazón (unique seasoning) to your brand on LinkedIn. Creating a strong professional brand helps you attract job opportunities. Discover key areas to enhance your professional brand and optimize your LinkedIn profile.

Join us on this thought-provoking podcast as we explore the nuances of implicit bias and how it impacts our decisions. We’ll delve into strategies for implicit bias pruning, uncovering hidden potential in others, and leading authentically—both within ourselves and in our interactions with others. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring conversations!

Join us for an insightful discussion on overcoming imposter syndrome and building self-confidence in your career. In this episode, we explore:

1. Identifying the Five Types of Imposter Syndrome:
2. Navigating Systemic and Cultural Influences
3. Practical Tips to Boost Self-Confidence:

Tune in and empower yourself to conquer imposter syndrome!

In this episode, we delve into the critical aspects of career growth and personal development. Join us as we explore:

1. Understanding Risk Aversion:

2. Cultural Perspectives on Risk-Taking:

3. Building Resilience: Bouncing Back from Setbacks:

Join us as we empower you to embrace risks, challenge conventional narratives, and unlock your full career potential.

Join us on a journey of resilience and transformation in today's podcast episode. Our panelists have navigated the challenges of incarceration or being system-impacted and emerged with powerful tales of personal and professional triumph. We delve into the panelists’ unique personal and career paths, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the wisdom gained through their experiences. Tune in to be moved by their compelling narratives and find inspiration in their dedication to forging new beginnings.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating realm of cultural scripts—those deeply embedded ideas and assumptions that shape our lives. We’ll explore their origins, impact, and how to reframe them. Join us as we bridge our dual cultures—home and career—crafting narratives that empower authenticity and resilience.

In this week's episode, 'Chelle Peters, a seasoned recruiter, shares valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating the job search process. This episode provides essential guidance to help you stand out and secure your dream job. Tune in and unlock the secrets behind successful job hunting!

This week we're dropping a Spanish episode - Cómo crear tu marca profesional. Nuestra marca profesional nos ayudad a resaltar en nuestra carrera profesional y atraer oportunidades laborales.

Today's episode of Career Talk With OG is a special one. We randomly selected people and reviewed their LinkedIn profile live. You'll want to listen to this episode and with your LinkedIn profile open.

Ready to master LinkedIn? In today's episode of Career Talk With OG, we unlock the full potential of your LinkedIn profile! I'll share practical strategies for optimizing your profile, building a strong professional brand, and attracting job opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, I got you covered.

Are you a seasoned professional navigating the job market after 40? Join us on Career Talk With OG as we dive into empowering strategies for job seekers who’ve seen a few career seasons. In this episode, we’ll explore how to: embrace fear, uncover your talents, and master job search strategies. Tune in and embrace your seasoned wisdom as you embark on the next chapter of your career.

Are you tired of wearing a corporate mask and hiding your true self at work? In this episode, I share 5 tips to remove the corporate mask and be your authentic self in the workplace.

This week on Career Talk With OG, Dr. Gilberto Pérez, Vice President for Student Life, talks about building community, increasing student engagement, and providing support services for students. Gosh College recently received a grant from the Department of Education to expand it's wraparound services for Latinx students and many other students.

This episode of Career Talk With OG, guests Claudia Romo Edelman, Founder of We Are All Human, and Cynthia Kleinbaum Milner, Chief Marketing Officer of MoneyLioin, talk about highlighting trailblazing latinas and challenging stereotypes. Listen to the podcast A La Latina

Imposter Syndrome holds many of us back from realizing our full potential. In this transformative keynote, I provide my first-generation perspective and understanding of how historically marginalized groups can overcome imposter syndrome and navigate their career with unshakable confidence. 

Could you be guilty of implicit bias pruning? In this episode of Career Talk With OG, I talk about the concept that I refer to as "implicit bias pruning", limiting the potential of people or a group due to our unconscious bias, behavior or stereotype of a group, for example first-generation and historically marginalized students.

This is a special Spanish episode of Career Talk With OG. Es un taller que dí para la Cámara Venezolano-Americana de Comercio e Industria (VenAmCham). Descubre el arte del liderazgo auténtico y cultive las habilidades necesarias para liderar con integridad, propósito e influencia. Sumérjase en el mundo de la marca profesional y comprenda cómo mejorar su marca personal para diferenciarse en un mercado competitivo.

The road to success is paved with obstacles, heartaches, and lots of faith. In today's episode of Career Talk With OG, Dr. John Hernandez shares his incredible story of a first-generation immigrant and a product of the California community college system becoming a college president.

What does it take to create a strong college environment? In today's episode, Dr. Mike Muñoz, President, and Herlinda Chico, Board President, of Long Beach City College share the importance of three success traits: Collaboration, Confianza (trust), and Vision in creating a strong and prosperous college community.

Visit Long Beach City College https://www.lbcc.edu

In today's episode of Career Talk With OG, we embark on a professional development workshop for NCCHC designed for Latinx professionals in academia. We delve into the distinct challenges we face in our careers – from navigating misconceptions of our qualifications to tapping into the power of cultural beliefs and overcoming the fear of taking risks. Discover how to unlock your full career potential with our practical strategies and actionable tips so you can fearlessly unleash your true potential and thrive in your chosen path.

En este episodio de Career Talk With OG, el emprendedor en serie, Crístian Ocaña, comparte sus senderos y tribulaciones como emprendedor.

Institutions in higher education are experiencing declining enrollment, turnover, and political headwinds. In today's episode of Career Talk With OG, Dr. Anthony Cruz, Campus President of Miami Dade College - Kendall Campus, talks about how he uses his expertise to increase educational opportunities, enhance the student experience, bolster student success, and leadership tips for those interested in becoming a college President.

In today's episode of Career Talk With OG, Alberto L. Esparza, the esteemed President & CEO of I Rise Foundation. Alberto takes us on a remarkable journey through his 40 years of dedicated social justice activism. From his humble beginnings as Cesar Chavez's bodyguard to creating the transformative Sí Se Puede Foundation, Alberto's impactful work has reached far and wide. With a deep passion for empowering the youth, Alberto has also spearheaded significant initiatives like STEM programs, uplifting countless young minds along the way. Alberto has been an influential figure, serving on various boards and commissions while continually advocating for equality and justice. Tune in to gain invaluable insights from an OG Chicano with an abundance of pride. Alberto will leave you inspired and motivated.

Connect with Alberto Esparza on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alberto-l-esparza-9237b32/

Today's episode of Career Talk With OG, my guest is Rosy Corado-Biggs with JVS San Francisco. JVS provides free career and job search workshops, many online. Rosy shares some job market trends and also job search tips for early to mid-career professionals. She specifically highlights their Job Search Accelerator program - an intensive and effective job search program.

JVS Job Search Accelerator Program https://www.jvs.org/job-search-accelerator-san-francisco/

In this episode of Career Talk With OG, we dive into how job seekers can best utilize LinkedIn. I cover topics like creating your personal brand, optimizing your LinkedIn profile, growing your connections and sharing your expertise. You'll want to listen to this episode with your LinkedIn profile available. I'll give you lots of practical and actionable tips to leverage the platform to you attract opportunities.

In today's episode of Career Talk With OG, my son and I delve into an important discussion about the influence of various aspects of our identity on assuming leadership roles. My son shares his personal leadership journey as a young, college-educated, brown, queer person. We explore the questions: Does the color of our skin influence our ability to assume leadership roles? Does sexual orientation play a role in leadership opportunities? And what about age? Lastly, we'll reflect on the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals who are young, brown, and queer.

Today's episode of Career Talk With OG is a past keynote from the San Francisco Chapter of the National Hispanic Organization of Real Estate Associates (NHORA). I focused my keynote on the leadership concept of being a giver, not a taker. How the best salespeople share their vulnerability and treat clients with authenticity and genuine interest.

In today's episode of Career Talk With OG, we'll discuss three essential career skills: creating your professional brand, optimizing your LinkedIn profile, and networking for introverts. Throughout the episode, I emphasize the importance of authenticity and genuine connections. I encourage listeners to reflect on their values, passions, and goals, and align their brand, LinkedIn profile, and networking efforts accordingly.

Today's episode of Career Talk With OG is a personal testimony from Eddie Garcia, author, leadership and life coach, and retired corporate executive. Eddie shares his incredible story of growing up in East San Jose, getting kicked out of college, becoming a corporate executive, running for elected office. Then experiencing a life altering heart attack and being a heart transplant recipient. He is the author of "Summer in the Waiting Room" where he talks about his true story of youthful promise, unfulfilled potential, temporary success, catastrophic illness, and spiritual awakening.

In today's episode of Career Talk With OG, I talk about what the two percent of jobseekers do differently to get ahead. Whether your education is from Harvard or the school of hard knocks, do what the two percent does to successfully manage your career and get ahead. The tips are simple, not easy, but doable.

Today's episode of Career Talk With OG is a personal story about giving unconditionally. I often talk about helping others with zero expectations. It's not easy to do, yet there's a positive outcome.

This episode of Career Talk With OG is a talk I delivered for Moreno Valley College for minority students, entrepreneurs, innovators, staff, and business owners. I speak about conquering minority obstacles, harnessing competition, valuing our identity, taking risks, and uncovering our superpowers.

Today's episode of Career Talk With OG is a virtual workshop I gave to Korean and Japanese women entrepreneurs on how to pitch their business idea to investors. In the episode I talk about intersecting your personal and business brand, pitching tips, and content creation.