Career Cheat Code

In this episode, Jeffrey Martinez, head of branch banking at PNC Bank, shares his remarkable journey from a bank teller to an executive leader within one of America's largest retail banks. Jeff highlights the vital role his immigrant upbringing and family values have played in shaping his aspirations and decisions throughout his career. He candidly discusses the challenges he faced in making the leap from JPMorgan Chase to PNC, emphasizing the courage it takes to embrace change and pursue growth.

• The importance of stability in career decisions 
• Embracing risks and the power of curiosity 
• Fostering a culture of trust and empathy in leadership 
• The role of financial wellness in community upliftment 
• Personal stories of growth accelerating career progression 
• Navigating the complexities of corporate transitions 
• Empowering employees to uplift clients and communities 
• The focus on continual learning and development 
• The importance of mentorship and giving back 
• Reflection on the American Dream and its broader implications 

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Disclaimer:

The views shared on Career Cheat Code are those of the guests and don’t reflect the host or any affiliated organizations. This podcast is for inspiration and information, highlighting unique career journeys to help you define success and take your next step.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast on whatever platform you’re using, and share this podcast with your friends and your networks. For more #CareerCheatCode, visit linktr.ee/careercheatcode. 
Host - Radhy Miranda 
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Producer - Gary Batista
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Imagine creating a career that not only fulfills you but also makes a significant impact on the world. Join us as we uncover the transformative power of mindset with Stephen Minix, the Senior Director of Community at UpMetrics, who champions the cause of connecting foundations, impact investors, and nonprofits through innovative data analytics. Discover how UpMetrics' software revolutionizes data collection and reporting, enabling organizations to concentrate on their true missions. We explore the art of building partnerships that inspire meaningful change beyond mere compliance, fostering dynamic relationships that promote genuine learning and understanding.

Key Points:

• Exploring the vital role of mindset in team success 
• Understanding the functions of UpMetrics and its technology 
• Building authentic relationships beyond transactional networking 
• Highlighting the significance of curiosity in community engagement 
• Sharing personal stories of challenges and growth in philanthropy 
• Encouraging proactive communication for stronger connections 
• Emphasizing the need for integrity and ethical decision-making 
• Turning personal pain into progress for community impact

Disclaimer:

The views shared on Career Cheat Code are those of the guests and don’t reflect the host or any affiliated organizations. This podcast is for inspiration and information, highlighting unique career journeys to help you define success and take your next step.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast on whatever platform you’re using, and share this podcast with your friends and your networks. For more #CareerCheatCode, visit linktr.ee/careercheatcode. 
Host - Radhy Miranda 
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Producer - Gary Batista
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This episode uncovers the unexpected journey of Bea De La Torre, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Trinity Church NYC, who shares her experience in philanthropy and the importance of taking risks in one’s career. Listeners gain insights on the power of relationships, the complexities of social issues, and the joy found in helping others through meaningful work. 

We follow the adventurous path of a proud Boricua who navigated her way from Puerto Rico to the United States, driven by a passion for urban planning. Through her experiences at the University of Pennsylvania and MIT, she found her calling beyond the corporate world. Her transformative role in public service after 9/11 paved the way for a career in philanthropy, revealing the profound impact of housing stability on community development. Throughout, Bea emphasizes the crucial role of mentorship and the importance of staying open to life's serendipitous career transitions. 

•Discussion on Bea’s early career in corporate America and the search for a mission-driven path 
•Narrative on how housing stability impacts communities and individual lives 
•Insights about transitioning from public sector work to philanthropy 
•Importance of networking and building relationships for career growth 
•Challenges faced in addressing social issues and the progress made along the way 
•Emphasis on the role passion plays in creating change through work

Disclaimer:

The views shared on Career Cheat Code are those of the guests and don’t reflect the host or any affiliated organizations. This podcast is for inspiration and information, highlighting unique career journeys to help you define success and take your next step.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast on whatever platform you’re using, and share this podcast with your friends and your networks. For more #CareerCheatCode, visit linktr.ee/careercheatcode. 
Host - Radhy Miranda 
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Producer - Gary Batista
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The episode explores the significant role of impact consultants in driving social change within corporations, sharing inspiring stories and insights from a successful entrepreneur in the field. It highlights impactful projects, mentorship, and the importance of collaboration across sectors to create equitable outcomes while emphasizing that profit and purpose can coexist. 

Unlock the keys to driving systemic change with insights from our special guest, Tynesia Boyea-Robinson, CEO & President of CapEQ. Experience Ty’s transformative journey, beginning with their landmark work with Walmart that reshaped minimum wage policies and led to broader social impact across various industries. Ty reveals their strategies for embedding equitable practices into businesses, sharing the creation of the Investor Blueprint for Racial and Economic Equity. Discover how Ty manages a dynamic lifestyle, balancing travel and virtual meetings to collaborate with clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to influential foundations.

• Introduction to the journey of an impact consultant 
• Changing corporate practices for social good 
• Powerful stories of transformative projects 
• Navigating barriers to equitable practices 
• The importance of partnerships between businesses and philanthropies 
• Highlighting the Investor Blueprint for Racial and Economic Equity 
• Mentorship as a crucial component of professional growth 
• The entrepreneurial spirit in impact consulting 
• Encouragement to take bold steps toward personal and professional dreams

Disclaimer:

The views shared on Career Cheat Code are those of the guests and don’t reflect the host or any affiliated organizations. This podcast is for inspiration and information, highlighting unique career journeys to help you define success and take your next step.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast on whatever platform you’re using, and share this podcast with your friends and your networks. For more #CareerCheatCode, visit linktr.ee/careercheatcode. 
Host - Radhy Miranda 
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Producer - Gary Batista
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We're Back! 

Christian McKenzie shares her experiences and insights from the venture capital world, explaining the risks and rewards of investing in startups. The episode highlights her journey from the fashion industry to venture capital, the importance of networking, and how supporting entrepreneurs goes beyond just funding. 

• Exploring the nature of venture capital and its high-risk, high-reward dynamics 
• Discussing how Lofty Ventures supports startups beyond investment 
• Identifying ideal profiles for entrepreneurs seeking funding 
• Networking strategies and relationship-building in venture capital 
• Navigating personal journeys and adapting career paths 
• The role of compensation in venture capital and long-term investment strategies 
• Emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in entrepreneurship 

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Disclaimer:

The views shared on Career Cheat Code are those of the guests and don’t reflect the host or any affiliated organizations. This podcast is for inspiration and information, highlighting unique career journeys to help you define success and take your next step.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast on whatever platform you’re using, and share this podcast with your friends and your networks. For more #CareerCheatCode, visit linktr.ee/careercheatcode. 
Host - Radhy Miranda 
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Producer - Gary Batista
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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Francisco Bencosme, a senior advisor at USAID, as he provides a rare glimpse into the mechanisms of international development and policy leadership. Ever wondered about the intricacies of China's Belt and Road Initiative? Francisco breaks it down, sharing his day-to-day responsibilities and the pivotal role he plays in advising senior leaders on these global initiatives. Learn how his background in national security and foreign policy, coupled with personal experiences, fuels his passion for this field and shapes his approach to complex challenges.

From an intern to a key player on the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Francisco's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Discover how his strategic focus on future national security issues propelled him into specializing in the Asia-Pacific region. Hear firsthand about his experiences preparing critical materials for high-stakes decisions, such as military authorizations, and see how his time at Georgetown University's Security Studies program enriched his understanding and professional network. Francisco’s story is a testament to the value of academic pursuits, practical experiences, and the resilience required to navigate a career in public service.

Moreover, Francisco sheds light on the transformative impact of mentorship and programs like the International Career Advancement Program, which support mid-career professionals of color in national security. Gain insights into the complex negotiations of the Compact Free Association with Pacific nations and the importance of maintaining strong relations amid global power shifts. With practical advice on financial stability, mentorship, and salary negotiations in public service, this episode is packed with career hacks and inspiring stories that underscore the value of perseverance and staying true to one's values. Don't miss out on Francisco's powerful journey and the invaluable lessons he shares.

Disclaimer:

The views shared on Career Cheat Code are those of the guests and don’t reflect the host or any affiliated organizations. This podcast is for inspiration and information, highlighting unique career journeys to help you define success and take your next step.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast on whatever platform you’re using, and share this podcast with your friends and your networks. For more #CareerCheatCode, visit linktr.ee/careercheatcode. 
Host - Radhy Miranda 
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Producer - Gary Batista
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Discover the power of theater to transform communities with our special guest, Mino Lora, the Executive Artistic Director of the People's Theater Project (PTP). Listen in as Mino shares the riveting story of how PTP was born from a master's thesis in peace studies and conflict transformation into a beacon of artistic expression for New York City's immigrant community. Learn about the diverse initiatives that PTP spearheads, from professional productions featuring immigrant artists to community-based shows that highlight local talent, and a robust playwrights unit fostering new works.

Get an inside look at the journey from volunteer-based beginnings to establishing the largest performing arts nonprofit in upper Manhattan. Mino discusses the vital role of comprehensive education programs aimed at empowering young immigrants through theater, and the strategic partnerships with schools and community centers that amplify their impact. We explore the multifaceted roles involved in running PTP, from fundraising and staff management to government relations and production, giving you a glimpse into the dynamic nature of nonprofit arts administration.

Celebrate the incredible impact PTP has had over the past 15 years as Mino reflects on the transformative power of theater and advocacy. Hear heartfelt stories of young participants who have grown into staff members, illustrating the deep roots and community bonds PTP has nurtured. Mino also opens up about the challenges of balancing professional responsibilities with personal life, particularly as a mother, and the importance of advocating for fair wages and equitable compensation in the nonprofit sector. This episode is a testament to the passion and dedication driving PTP's mission to uplift and support the immigrant community through the arts.

Disclaimer:

The views shared on Career Cheat Code are those of the guests and don’t reflect the host or any affiliated organizations. This podcast is for inspiration and information, highlighting unique career journeys to help you define success and take your next step.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast on whatever platform you’re using, and share this podcast with your friends and your networks. For more #CareerCheatCode, visit linktr.ee/careercheatcode. 
Host - Radhy Miranda 
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Producer - Gary Batista
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Ever wondered how public health experts manage crises from behind the scenes? Join us as we sit down with Maleeka Jamil Glover, an esteemed epidemiologist and executive director of WCAPS, who shares her incredible journey from the CDC trenches to leading a nonprofit that empowers women of color. With over two decades of experience navigating public health emergencies like Hurricane Katrina and COVID-19, Maleeka offers a rare glimpse into the complexities of managing vulnerable populations during disasters. Her unique perspective on cardiovascular epidemiology and her passion for global health will leave you inspired and informed.

Maleeka takes us through the logistical and emotional hurdles faced by healthcare workers and public health officials during COVID-19. From standardizing data collection across states to the emotional toll on frontline workers, she provides an insider's look at the immense efforts required to keep the nation safe. Balancing her dual roles at the CDC and WCAPS, Maleeka's commitment to public health and policy change shines through, offering valuable lessons on resilience and dedication.

Disclaimer:

The views shared on Career Cheat Code are those of the guests and don’t reflect the host or any affiliated organizations. This podcast is for inspiration and information, highlighting unique career journeys to help you define success and take your next step.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast on whatever platform you’re using, and share this podcast with your friends and your networks. For more #CareerCheatCode, visit linktr.ee/careercheatcode. 
Host - Radhy Miranda 
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Producer - Gary Batista
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What if your journey from an immigrant struggling with English to a top state official could empower countless others? Meet Zoila, the Deputy Secretary of State for Economic Opportunity under Governor Hochul, who shares her extraordinary story and invaluable insights on how to create economic and social opportunities for all New Yorkers. From combating financial crimes at the Attorney General's office to overseeing critical divisions like the Office for New Americans and the Division of Consumer Protection, Zoila's journey is a masterclass in resilience, dedication, and public service.

Tune in to uncover how early mentorship opportunities and a pivotal internship at the Attorney General's office set the stage for Zoila's illustrious career. Learn about the impact of her work, particularly in supporting immigrants and fostering financial empowerment in communities. Discover the versatility and value of a law degree beyond traditional legal practice, and the importance of becoming a well-rounded applicant for law school through disciplined academic performance and extracurricular involvement. Zoila's career highlights the significant role of passion, experience, and financial considerations in choosing a path in public interest law.

Moreover, explore the importance of community involvement and professional growth through serving on junior boards. Zoila shares her perspective on navigating financial stability, the value of mentorship, and giving back to the community. Hear advice on leveraging professional networks, committing time and expertise to nonprofit boards, and staying informed about philanthropic trends. This episode is brimming with career hacks, mentorship tips, and stories of resilience, making it a must-listen for anyone aspiring to make a meaningful impact in government or public interest fields.

Disclaimer:

The views shared on Career Cheat Code are those of the guests and don’t reflect the host or any affiliated organizations. This podcast is for inspiration and information, highlighting unique career journeys to help you define success and take your next step.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast on whatever platform you’re using, and share this podcast with your friends and your networks. For more #CareerCheatCode, visit linktr.ee/careercheatcode. 
Host - Radhy Miranda 
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Producer - Gary Batista
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What does it take to navigate the complex world of international agricultural trade? Join us as we explore the fascinating career of Olutayo Akingbe, a dedicated Foreign Service Officer with the USDA’s Foreign Agriculture Service. Discover how Olutayo’s role as the eyes and ears of the USDA at the U.S. Embassy in Cairo involves promoting U.S. agricultural exports, conducting market intelligence, and overcoming intricate regulatory challenges, such as facilitating the import of U.S. kosher beef jerky into Israel. Olutayo’s insightful stories offer a behind-the-scenes look at the crucial collaboration between U.S. officers and local staff in achieving these goals.

Ever wondered what it’s like to represent the United States abroad? Olutayo shares her personal and professional journey, from rigorous training in Washington, D.C., to securing overseas assignments in diverse locations like Egypt and Canada. Learn about the complexities of bidding for positions, the necessity of language training, and the extensive preparation required for each role. Olutayo candidly discusses the balance between professional duties and personal life, highlighting both the rewards and challenges of her role.

Curious about a career in international affairs? Olutayo's path from studying at UPenn and Columbia University to discovering the FAS through networking and fellowship opportunities provides valuable insights. Hear about her experiences working with NGOs, the importance of relationships, and the benefits of diverse experiences in shaping a successful international career. Olutayo's passion for mentoring and preparing the next generation of diverse Foreign Service Officers shines through, emphasizing the critical need for diversity and representation in leadership within the Foreign Service. This episode is a must-listen for anyone aspiring to make a global impact.

Disclaimer:

The views shared on Career Cheat Code are those of the guests and don’t reflect the host or any affiliated organizations. This podcast is for inspiration and information, highlighting unique career journeys to help you define success and take your next step.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to this podcast on whatever platform you’re using, and share this podcast with your friends and your networks. For more #CareerCheatCode, visit linktr.ee/careercheatcode. 
Host - Radhy Miranda 
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Producer - Gary Batista
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To watch on YouTube
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