Join host Pablo Muñoz for a thought-provoking conversation with his featured guest — Reyna Sotelo.

Reyna is a dedicated education leader with over 20 years of experience in public education, including roles as a campus leader, executive leader, and nonprofit executive.  She is passionate about advancing opportunities for underserved students and families.  Reyna specializes in building systems and strategies that drive equity and excellence in education.

1:03 - Introduction
1:57 - My Leadership Story
28:37 - TNTP
33:01 - Educational Leadership
40:42 - Principal
46:03 - Teacher Shortage
50:51 - Voices for Change
55:01 - Student Superpowers
57:05 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Reyna Sotelo began her career as a radio DJ in Dallas, Texas, but then detoured for a better opportunity.  She became a bilingual teacher.  Reyna has always been committed to inclusive and equitable learning environments for diverse student populations.  As a principal, she led initiatives that improved academic outcomes and fostered strong school communities.  As an executive director, Reyna brought programs to scale and developed systems that strengthen teacher and leader development, advancing equity for students in underserved communities.  She also had an incredible opportunity to be an adjunct professor, where she taught future educators by blending practical experience with research-based strategies.  Now, Reyna is a partner with TNTP, where she collaborates with education organizations to design and implement strategic solutions that drive systemic change.  She has the opportunity to present across the nation in sharing insights on topics such as leadership development, equity in education, and bilingual programs at conferences and professional gatherings.  Reyna earned a bachelor's degree in radio, television, and film from the University of North Texas, as well as a master's degree in early childhood education and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from East Texas A&M University.

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/reyna-sotelo-edd-bab396112

Email:  [email protected]


Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com

Learn about The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email:  [email protected]

Join host Pablo Muñoz for a heartfelt conversation with his featured guest — Marie Moreno.

Marie is the founding principal of the nationally recognized Las Americas Newcomer School in Houston, Texas.  She has already traveled to 12 different countries to better understand our refugees and immigrants’ education systems in order to assist teachers across the United States.  Marie is the CEO and founder of the Newcomer Success consulting company.

1:03 - Introduction
2:00 - My Leadership Story
23:22 - Radically Helping Immigrants
31:18 - Las Americas Newcomer School
39:13 - Latina Leaders
42:29 - Trauma-Sensitive School
48:46 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Marie Moreno is a highly respected educational leader with over 30 years of experience.  In 2022, she was named TIME.com's Innovative Teacher of the Year for her significant impact on education.  Marie has shared her expertise at esteemed institutions like Harvard and Duke, focusing on trauma and school culture.  Her global field studies in Uganda, Kenya, Cuba, Israel, Guatemala, and Tanzania have helped her better understand the challenges that marginalized students face.  Marie was also invited to speak at TEDx about trauma-sensitive schools.

Marie is a professor at the University of Houston-Downtown.  She earned her bachelor's degree in information systems technology from the University of Houston and a master's degree in education administration from Texas Southern University-Houston.  In addition, Marie graduated from the University of St. Thomas-Houston with a doctorate in ethical leadership in administration.

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/dr-marie-moreno-7009a7167

Website:  newcomersuccessllc.com/

Instagram:  instagram.com/newcomersuccess/

Facebook:  facebook.com/newcomersuccess/

Email:  [email protected]


Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com

Learn about The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email:  [email protected]

Join host Pablo Muñoz for an authentic conversation with his featured guest — Barbara Soares Gould.

Barbara was born in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, and moved to New Jersey at the age of six with her mother and sister.  She is now a wife and mother of three, having spent more than 20 years in education as a teacher, literacy coach, assistant principal, principal, and director of counseling.  Today, Barbara is the chief academic officer for the West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District in New Jersey, and she is deeply committed to educational equity.

1:03 - Introduction
2:44 - My Leadership Story
28:26 - Chief Academic Officer
36:44 - Educational Leadership
46:28 - COVID-19
58:38 - Building a Village
1:06:16 - Latina Leaders
1:09:54 - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity
1:14:49 - Guided by Grit
1:21:46 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Barbara Soares Gould immigrated to the United States for educational opportunities, embracing New Jersey as her home.  She has devoted over 20 years to championing education and shaping impactful learning environments.  Barbara is unwavering in her commitment to ensuring that every student has the resources, opportunities, and support they need to succeed.  She firmly believes that “All Students Can" and "We All Play a Part.”  Barbara is passionate about the transformative power of education, and she is a strong advocate for equity, access, and student success.

Barbara earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from The College of New Jersey, as well as a doctorate from Rider University.

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/barbara-soares-gould-ed-d-501557293

Email:  [email protected]


Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com

Learn about The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email:  [email protected]

Join host Pablo Muñoz for a riveting conversation with his featured guest — Ruth Pérez.

Ruth is the deputy superintendent of the Los Angeles County Office of Education in California, with over 20 years of experience as a superintendent.  She is a proud Puerto Rican and former English language learner.  Ruth champions equity for underserved youth, mentors Latino leaders, and has led transformative initiatives such as multimillion-dollar bond campaigns to expand student technology access.

1:03 - Introduction
2:02 - My Leadership Story
15:07 - Deputy Superintendent
25:09 - Educational Leadership
33:02 - Principal
38:51 - Latina Leaders
43:01 - Equity Leader
48:45 - Learn, Grow, and Develop as a Leader
51:42 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Ruth Pérez is an accomplished educational leader who is committed to advancing justice for underserved youth.  She has held key positions in multiple California districts, including deputy superintendent of schools at the Riverside County Office of Education and superintendent of both the Paramount Unified School District and the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District.  Ruth also served as the deputy superintendent of instruction at the Los Angeles Unified School District in California, the chief academic officer at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools in North Carolina, and the area superintendent at Orange County Public Schools in Florida.

Ruth has a strong sense of justice for underserved communities and English language learners.  Her personal journey fuels her commitment to advocating for historically marginalized students, particularly Latino youth, who benefit from seeing role models who reflect their aspirations.  Ruth understands the transformative power of representation and is dedicated to mentoring and supporting Latino superintendents, championing the idea that students must "see who they can become."   She serves on the AASA Governing Board, ACSA Superintendents Council, and Southern Superintendent’s Association.  A visionary leader, Ruth continues to champion innovation and excellence in education, ensuring students and educators have the resources to thrive.

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/dr-ruth-perez-70a8b022

Email:  [email protected]


Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com

Learn about The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email:  [email protected]

Join host Pablo Muñoz for an enriching conversation with his featured guest — Raymond Sanchez.

Ray is the superintendent of the Public Schools of the Tarrytowns in New York.  He has been widely applauded for his efforts in promoting instructional equity, closing achievement gaps, and initiating programs that encourage community involvement in meaningful ways.  Ray is the New York State Superintendent of the Year for 2025.

1:03 - Introduction
1:52 - My Leadership Story
19:08 - Superintendent of the Year
25:48 - Educational Leadership
30:05 - Doing the Right Things
33:09 - Instructional Equity
35:39 - Community Engagement
38:16 - The Power of Diversity
40:21 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Raymond Sanchez began as a classroom teacher and progressed through building, curriculum, and district leadership roles before being appointed superintendent of the Ossining Union Free School District in New York, a position he held for more than a decade.  His dedication to meeting the needs of children and their families is further demonstrated by his extensive community service, where he currently serves on the boards of several organizations.  Ray has received numerous awards and peer recognition for his leadership, vision, and outreach efforts.

Ray is a leader among his colleagues, serving as a board member, advisor, and delegate in a variety of professional organizations.  He is also an adjunct professor at Manhattanville University and Bank Street College of Education, as well as a member of the advisory board for the Future School Leadership Academy.  Ray received a doctorate in educational leadership from Manhattanville College.  He also has advanced degrees and certificates from Fordham University, Columbia University, and Long Island University.  Ray earned his bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Geneseo.

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/ray-sanchez-b77b2a2a0

AASA website:  aasa.org/about-aasa/person/raymond-sanchez

Email:  [email protected]


Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com

Learn about The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email:  [email protected]

Join host Pablo Muñoz for a warmhearted conversation with his featured guest — Carlos Ramirez.

Carlos is the proud principal of Randolph Elementary School in Arlington, Virginia.  He is in his seventh year as principal of his vibrant International Baccalaureate (IB) world school, which also happens to be a Title I school.  Carlos is a dedicated educational leader who is deeply committed to nurturing global citizenship and instilling in students a lifelong love of learning.

1:03 - Introduction
1:54 - My Leadership Story
18:00 - Principal of the Year
35:35 - Educational Leadership
43:54 - International Baccalaureate
52:30 - Schools in Venezuela and the United States
1:02:08 - Latino Leader
1:06:36 - Learn, Grow, and Develop as a Leader
1:08:16 - Guiding Principles

Carlos Ramirez has a wealth of experience with 26 years in education and has served as a principal, assistant principal, coordinator, and supervisor.  He taught multiple grade levels in Venezuela before moving to the United States, where he was a teacher in North Carolina and Virginia.  Carlos comes from a humble background where education was the golden ticket to get ahead in life.  His parents instilled in Carlos a passion for learning and helping others become the best version of themselves as they did everything within their power to help him get the best education possible.

Carlos earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching English as a foreign language, a master’s degree in teaching English to speakers of other languages, and a graduate certificate in educational leadership.  He has made significant contributions as a tireless instructional leader, guiding and supporting staff towards excellence.  Carlos was awarded the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents 2024 Principal of the Year.

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/carlos-ramirez-40995a2a2

Instagram:  instagram.com/mrramirezrandolphprincipal/

Email:  [email protected]


Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com

Learn about The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email:  [email protected]

Join host Pablo Muñoz for a transparent and authentic conversation with his featured guest — Elizabeth Álvarez.

Elizabeth has more than 15 years of leadership experience, having served as an assistant principal, principal, and Network 8 chief in the Chicago Public Schools.  She is a bilingual educator with a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction.  As the first female and Latina superintendent of the Forest Park School District 91 in Illinois, Elizabeth champions diversity, equity, educational excellence, and STEAM initiatives.

1:03 - Introduction
2:02 - My Leadership Story
24:47 - Superintendent of Schools
29:17 - Rabbit on the Moon
32:41 - Educational Leadership
37:31 - Latina Leaders
44:12 - The Power of Presence
47:18 - Vulnerability and Integrity
50:07 - Storytelling in Leadership
53:31 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Elizabeth Álvarez is a bilingual educator dedicated to growth and achievement.  She has developed strategic plans, strengthened community ties, and championed social-emotional learning.  As superintendent of Forest Park School District 91, Elizabeth consolidated schools, enhanced family engagement, and mentored future educational leaders.  Her tenure as principal saw her school achieve level 1+ status, while she also taught as an adjunct professor at Concordia University.  Elizabeth is the co-founder of the Latino Leadership Pipeline that supports aspiring Latino leaders, and she has served as president of the Illinois Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents.  As Network 8 chief of schools in Chicago Public Schools, she raised school performance from the 30th to the 70th percentile.  In 2024, Elizabeth published Rabbit on the Moon: Embracing My Mexican-American Identity, further showcasing her dedication to cultural and educational empowerment.

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-alvarez-ph-d-374b4143

Email:  [email protected]


Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com

Learn about The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email:  [email protected]

Join host Pablo Muñoz for an honest and vulnerable conversation with his featured guest — Juan Santos.

Juan is proud to be the president-elect of the California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators (CALSA), an organization that supports administrators throughout California.  He is currently the assistant superintendent of human resources for the Ventura County Office of Education.  Juan wants to inspire future generations by making a lasting impression on people through mentoring and leadership.

1:03 - Introduction
2:02 - My Leadership Story
16:07 - The Switch
21:04 - Stand and Deliver
24:00 - Assistant Superintendent
27:21 - Educational Leadership
31:39 - CALSA
34:42 - Be Your Best
36:32 - Latino Leadership
39:37 - Learn, Grow, and Develop as a Leader
40:52 - Guiding Principles

Dr. Juan Santos is a passionate leader, dedicated mentor, and driven change-maker, empowering others to excel.  He was born and raised in Bakersfield, California, but he grew up alone, surrounded by a vibrant life, fueled by a series of events that included learning.  Juan is driven by the motto "Be Your Best.”

Juan has achieved notable accomplishments throughout his career, including inspiring others, especially youth; fostering community engagement through partnerships; developing leadership skills through mentorship programs; and achieving academic excellence.  His guiding principles include empowerment through uplifting others, authenticity by staying true, continuous growth through learning, and unity by building bridges.  Juan embodies resilience, self-awareness, and excellence.

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/dr-juan-manuel-santos-0a13312a

Website:  calsa.org/

Email:  [email protected]


Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com

Learn about The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email:  [email protected]

Join host Pablo Muñoz for a fascinating conversation with his featured guest — Joanne Fimbres.

Joanne is the proud chief financial officer for the Pendergast Elementary School District in Phoenix, Arizona.  She has 25 years of educational experience.  Joanne is a strong, award-winning Latina leader who is responsible for budget, finance, and operations for her school district.

1:03 - Introduction
1:48 - My Leadership Story
17:15 - Chief Financial Officer
27:56 - Budget and Finance
30:45 - Latina Leaders
34:27 - Paying it Forward
38:40 - Learn, Grow, and Develop as a Leader
40:17 - Leadership Academy
44:05 - Guiding Principles

Joanne Fimbres is the chief financial officer and in charge of six operational departments.  The Pendergast Elementary School District has twelve campuses and serves 8,250 students.  Joanne is always focused on what is best for her students, their education, and providing the educational tools that they need to succeed.  She leads her team in maintaining compliance in all areas and ensuring that the district is fiscally sound.

Joanne has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and her master’s degree in business administration (MBA) with an emphasis in strategic innovation and leadership, both from Ottawa University.  She has served on multiple boards and has received numerous organizational nominations and awards.  Joanne was most recently named Central Office Administrator of the Year by the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS).

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/joanne-f-07193969

Website:  pesd92.org/district/departments/financial-services

Email:  [email protected]


Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com

Learn about The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email:  [email protected]

Join host Pablo Muñoz for a powerful conversation with his featured guest — Miguel Castillo.

Miguel is the director of bilingual education and early childhood programs at the Elgin Independent School District in Texas.  His educational career spans 30 years, and he has experience at the teacher, principal, director, and executive level.  Miguel is a former immigrant and migrant farm worker who now advocates for immigrants, migrants, and bilingual students.

1:03 - Introduction
2:07 - My Leadership Story
21:26 - Bilingual Education and Early Childhood Programs
28:53 - Principal
32:43 - Finishing the Journey
36:44 - Immigrant, Bilingual, and Migrant Students
40:14 - Learn, Grow, and Develop as a Leader
42:34 - Hispanic Communities
46:24 - Guiding Principles

Miguel Castillo is a former immigrant and migrant student who moved to the United States with his family in 1980.  He was the first in his family to graduate from college in 1993, and five of his siblings followed in his footsteps.  While Miguel was in school, his parents moved to various states, such as Nebraska, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and Florida.  Miguel attended 18 different schools before graduating from high school in 1988.  His expertise in school improvement and leadership enabled him to transform three schools under his supervision into some of the best in Texas.  Miguel's work has been featured on the national television network Univision as well as on the front cover of the New York Times.  He is currently writing his own book, which centers on his experiences as a migrant student in the American educational system, and has contributed to other written works twice.  Miguel is a national keynote and motivational speaker whose passion is to inspire immigrants, migrants, and Hispanic families and communities.

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/miguelmigrant

Website:  miguelmigrant.com/

Email:  [email protected]


Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays.

Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization.

For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com

Learn about The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithm

Learn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munoz

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1

Email:  [email protected]