RAW Spotlight

Cristina Cordeiro is the Founder of Dream Big Children's Center, a California-based organization offering play-centered Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism and developmental needs. Dream Big was inspired by Cristina's dual experiences as a behavior therapist and a mother seeking inclusive, joyful spaces for her own children. With over 20 years of experience in autism treatment, she has developed customized plans for hundreds of children aged 18 months to five years old. Under her leadership, Dream Big has expanded to multiple centers across Southern California, employing over 150 staff members dedicated to helping children thrive through compassionate, evidence-based care.

What if autism therapy felt more like a joyful playdate than a clinical appointment? As awareness grows around developmental care, families are seeking more than just treatment; they're craving environments that inspire connection and celebrate each child's potential. How can therapy models evolve to truly meet these emotional and developmental needs?

According to Cristina Cordeiro, a pioneering voice in autism care and behavioral health innovation, the key lies in reimagining ABA therapy through the lens of play. She highlights that traditional therapy often isolates children, whereas play-based models allow for social growth and emotional safety. The result is not just faster developmental progress but a genuine love for learning and engagement. Cristina shares how her centers were designed to resemble welcoming preschools rather than sterile clinics and how creating joyful, inclusive spaces in underserved communities has led to life-changing moments — like helping a child speak for the first time.

In this episode of RAW Spotlight, host Victor Huynh sits down with Cristina Cordeiro, Founder of Dream Big Children's Center, to discuss revolutionizing autism care with a play-based ABA therapy model. Cristina shares how EOS helped her scale, why clinic environments matter, and how storytelling powers Dream Big's marketing. She also gives advice on building personal brands and uplifting underrepresented founders.

Hoss Alamir is a Partner at Alamir CPA & Associates, Inc., a California-based firm providing accounting, tax, and CFO services to small and midsize businesses across various industries, including entertainment, manufacturing, and professional services. After graduating with honors from California State University, Los Angeles, he began his career at BDO as a tax accountant before transitioning to financial accounting and CFO services at Signature Analytics in 2016. With over a decade of experience, Hoss specializes in financial strategy, business consulting, and outsourced CFO services tailored to help clients grow and optimize profitability.

What does it take to turn financial data into a compelling, actionable story? For many business owners, the numbers on a balance sheet feel abstract, yet they hold the key to smarter decisions, stronger growth, and long-term success. How can leaders bridge the gap between dry financials and clear business strategy?

According to Hoss Alamir, a seasoned financial strategist and fractional CFO, the key lies in translating raw metrics into meaningful business narratives. He highlights that most owners overlook crucial KPIs and focus solely on revenue or expenses. This blind spot can lead to missed opportunities or hidden cash flow problems, ultimately stalling growth. By combining real-time financial accuracy with tailored KPI tracking, Hoss empowers businesses to course-correct early, optimize operations, and build toward sustainable success.

In this episode of RAW Spotlight, host Victor Huynh sits down with Hoss Alamir, Partner at Alamir CPA & Associates, Inc., to discuss how financial data becomes a business growth tool. They explore when to bring in CFO services, how KPIs drive smart decisions, and why cash flow cycles make or break companies. Hoss also shares lessons on merging tax strategy with financial leadership.

Victor Huynh is the CEO and Head of Digital Strategy at Ready Artwork, a digital marketing agency dedicated to B2B services. Born in San Diego, California, to an immigrant family, Victor embodies the entrepreneurial spirit instilled in him from a young age. He holds a background in graphic design, which propelled him into a marketing manager role early in his career and ultimately led to the creation of Ready Artwork over two decades ago. Throughout his professional journey, Victor has proven to be a versatile leader, serving as the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce President during the pandemic and advocating for local businesses.

Many businesses pour time and money into design and tech without knowing if they're building something that actually works. What if you had a clear, proven roadmap that takes the guesswork out of creating a high-performing website?

According to Victor Huynh, a seasoned digital strategist, clarity is the missing ingredient most businesses overlook. He highlights that their 7-step blueprint was crafted to eliminate confusion, align teams, and prevent costly missteps in website projects. The process draws on years of hard-earned lessons, blending brand discovery, customer journey mapping, and technical strategy into a unified approach. This not only simplifies execution but also dramatically improves a website's ability to attract, engage, and convert the right audiences.

In this episode of RAW Spotlight, Emily Au and Victor Huynh discuss their 7-step proven website blueprint. They break down the importance of business discovery, competitor analysis, and wireframing for success. You'll also learn how to align your site with SEO and user needs. Additionally, Victor gives advice on avoiding scope creep and managing project budgets wisely.

Victor Huynh is the CEO and Head of Digital Strategy at Ready Artwork, a digital marketing agency dedicated to B2B services. Born in San Diego, California, to an immigrant family, Victor embodies the entrepreneurial spirit instilled in him from a young age. He holds a background in graphic design, which propelled him into a marketing manager role early in his career and ultimately led to the creation of Ready Artwork over two decades ago. Throughout his professional journey, Victor has proven to be a versatile leader, serving as the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce President during the pandemic and advocating for local businesses.

Business and community leadership come with unique challenges, from overcoming personal doubts and navigating public perception to scaling operations and finding the right financial tools for growth. These hurdles, while daunting, can become stepping stones to success when leaders embrace transparency, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. So, what can we learn from professionals who are blending smart business practices with a passion for community impact?

Oceanna Lenon opens up about battling imposter syndrome early in her nonprofit career and how building confidence through action led to meaningful contributions. Dylan Feik outlines how engaging residents in city projects turns planning into a shared mission. Mary-Joy Coburn discusses the need for authentic representation and transparency in government, showing how communication can reshape public trust. Jennifer McPherson shares her journey from solo entrepreneur to team leader, highlighting the steep learning curve of hiring and management. Meanwhile, Jacky Dilfer breaks down the mechanics and advantages of SBA 504 loans, a financing option that empowers business owners to invest in property while preserving their capital.

In this episode of the RAW Spotlight, Victor Huynh reflects on these powerful stories from Oceanna Lenon, Dylan Feik, Mary-Joy Coburn, Jennifer McPherson, and Jacky Dilfer. Their insights reveal how aligning business growth with community values can lead to more resilient organizations and stronger local economies.

Trisha Murakawa is the Principal and Chief Problem Solver at Murakawa Communications, a strategic communications and public affairs firm. With over 25 years of experience, she specializes in public outreach and community engagement for environmental and infrastructure projects, earning accolades such as the Mike Watanabe Leadership Award. In 2020, Trisha was elected to the El Camino Community College District Board of Trustees, representing areas including El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and North Redondo Beach. She also serves on the boards of 211 LA County and the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce, reflecting her commitment to community service and public engagement.

Balancing a demanding professional career with a commitment to community service is a challenge many leaders face. How can someone maintain authenticity, drive public impact, and lead a values-based business while navigating the complexities of public perception and personal responsibilities?

Trisha Murakawa, a seasoned strategic communications and public affairs expert, shares how honesty, emotional intelligence, and community-centered values have shaped her career. Trisha emphasizes the importance of early public engagement, transparent dialogue, and building trust, especially in controversial infrastructure projects. She encourages women, especially those in underrepresented communities, to overcome fear, embrace risk, and collaborate rather than compete. Trisha's approach advocates aligning personal and professional missions to make a lasting impact as a leader.

In this episode of RAW Spotlight, Emily Au interviews Trisha Murakawa, Principal and Chief Problem Solver at Murakawa Communications, about leading with integrity in public affairs. Trisha discusses her mission to improve quality of life, the power of certifications for minority and women-owned businesses, and how to manage courageous conversations. She also delves into mentoring through civic leadership, challenges in the public works space, and the value of emotional intelligence.

​Rocky Castro is the Owner and CEO of Golden State Grating (GSG) Inc., a family-owned business specializing in the manufacturing and fabrication of steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and fiberglass gratings. Under his leadership, GSG has expanded its product line to include expanded/perforated metal, wire mesh, and safety grating, serving clients across various industries. With a commitment to service, innovation, and integrity, Rocky has upheld the company's tradition of excellence since its establishment in 1987.

Navigating a rapidly changing industry while leading a growing business requires adaptability, strategy, and resilience. How do successful leaders overcome challenges, embrace innovation, and scale their companies while maintaining a competitive edge?

According to Rocky Castro, a seasoned entrepreneur with deep industry experience, the key lies in strategic thinking, continuous learning, and surrounding yourself with the right team. He highlights how leveraging modern technology and refining internal processes have helped him scale Golden State Grating while maintaining efficiency. By embracing an open mindset and applying lessons from his diverse background, Rocky has been able to make sound business decisions under pressure.

In this episode of RAW Spotlight, Victor Huynh sits down with ​Rocky Castro, Owner and CEO of Golden State Grating (GSG) Inc., to discuss leadership, strategy, and resilience in the construction industry. Rocky shares how he transitioned from military service to leading a successful steel fabrication business, the impact of industry networking, and the role of technology in scaling operations. He also offers insights into overcoming business obstacles and building a strong foundation for long-term success.

Victor Huynh is the CEO and Head of Digital Strategy at Ready Artwork, a digital marketing agency dedicated to B2B services. Born in San Diego, California, to an immigrant family, Victor embodies the entrepreneurial spirit instilled in him from a young age. He holds a background in graphic design, which propelled him into a marketing manager role early in his career and ultimately led to the creation of Ready Artwork over two decades ago. Throughout his professional journey, Victor has proven to be a versatile leader, serving as the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce President during the pandemic and advocating for local businesses.

Scaling a business in the ever-evolving digital marketing space is no small feat. From financial roadblocks to shifting industry trends, entrepreneurs must constantly adapt to stay competitive. What are the key lessons learned from growing a small startup into a full-service web design and marketing agency?

According to Victor Huynh, a seasoned digital strategist, one of the biggest challenges in scaling a company is navigating financial constraints while keeping up with technological advancements. He highlights how Ready Artwork started as a print design business before pivoting to web development and marketing, leveraging existing expertise to evolve. Victor also emphasizes the importance of choosing the right website platform — WordPress for customization and Shopify for scalability — tailoring solutions to meet diverse business needs.

In this episode of the RAW Spotlight, Emily Au and Victor Huynh, CEO and Head of Digital Strategy at Ready Artwork, discuss the challenges of scaling a web design company. They dive into the importance of investing in custom website design, how website marketing services helped them grow, and key considerations when selecting between Shopify and WordPress. Victor also shares insights on future-proofing a website and the biggest leadership lesson he's learned along the way.

Victor Huynh is the CEO and Head of Digital Strategy at Ready Artwork, a digital marketing agency dedicated to B2B services. Born in San Diego, California, to an immigrant family, Victor embodies the entrepreneurial spirit instilled in him from a young age. He holds a background in graphic design, which propelled him into a marketing manager role early in his career and ultimately led to the creation of Ready Artwork over two decades ago. Throughout his professional journey, Victor has proven to be a versatile leader, serving as the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce President during the pandemic and advocating for local businesses.

The digital landscape is evolving faster than ever. What started as simple websites has transformed into sophisticated digital marketing strategies that businesses can't afford to ignore. But how did we get here, and what does it take to stay ahead in today's competitive online space?

According to Victor Huynh, a digital strategist and co-founder with years of experience in website marketing, businesses must shift from seeing websites as static assets to treating them as evolving tools for growth. He highlights how the user experience, SEO, and AI-driven strategies are now crucial in web design. The industry has moved past basic website creation — success today depends on strategy, adaptability, and data-driven decisions. With rapid advancements in AI and automation, companies that fail to integrate these changes risk falling behind.

In this episode of the RAW Spotlight, Emily Au and Victor Huynh, CEO and Head of Digital Strategy at Ready Artwork, discuss the evolution of digital marketing and what businesses must do to stay ahead. They talk about how AI is reshaping web design, why SEO strategies must adapt to Google's AI-driven changes, and the shift from traditional website builds to ongoing digital optimization. Victor also shares insights on the upcoming Vietnam SEO Conference and what trends define the future of digital marketing.

Mary-Joy Coburn is the Director of Communications at the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS), a public pension fund that provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits to employees of Orange County and participating agencies. In January 2025, she was honored with the Public Pension Communicator of the Year – Rising Star award by the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS). Before joining OCERS, Mary-Joy served as the Director of Communications at the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District from 2019 to 2023 and as a Public Information Officer at the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District from 2014 to 2019.

Authenticity in leadership is more than just a buzzword — it's a crucial ingredient in building trust, especially in public sector communications. In a world where transparency is expected, how can leaders foster meaningful connections with stakeholders while managing crisis situations effectively?

According to Mary-Joy Coburn, a seasoned communications executive and crisis management expert, authenticity starts with humility and transparency. She highlights the importance of admitting when you don't have all the answers while ensuring stakeholders feel heard and informed. By leading with honesty and adaptability, she has been able to navigate complex public communications, including crisis response and stakeholder engagement. Mary-Joy's approach emphasizes strategic storytelling, proactive crisis planning, and fostering collaboration among public information officers to build stronger, more resilient communication networks.

In this episode of RAW Spotlight, host Emily Au sits down with Mary-Joy Coburn, Director of Communications at the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS), to discuss how authenticity drives impactful communication in the public sector. They explore the critical role of trust in stakeholder engagement, the balance between transparency and crisis management, and the leadership strategies that elevate government communications.

Diane Mentzer is the Founder, Business Operations Advisor, and COO Coach at Diane Integrates, LLC, a consulting firm that helps businesses create structure, scale effectively, and enhance operations. With over two decades of experience as a second-in-command, she specializes in role definition, delegation strategies, and leadership alignment to improve business efficiency. Diane regularly contributes to CEOWORLD magazine and leads peer groups for second-in-command professionals, providing guidance on operational strategy and execution.

Running a business is like conducting an orchestra; every role must be in sync to create harmony. Without a clear structure and delegation, teams become overwhelmed, and growth stalls. So how can businesses strike the perfect balance between visionary leadership and operational efficiency?

According to Diane Mentzer, a seasoned business operations expert, success starts with defining clear roles and fostering collaboration between CEOs and their second-in-command. She highlights that many entrepreneurs rush to hire a COO before identifying what they truly need –– a structured system or a senior operations leader. Without clarity, businesses risk confusion, misalignment, and costly turnover. Diane emphasizes the importance of gradual delegation, operational accountability, and strategic communication to build efficiency without stifling creativity.

In this episode of RAW Spotlight, host Steffanie Rodriguez sits down with Diane Mentzer, Founder, Business Operations Advisor, and COO Coach at Diane Integrates, LLC, to discuss how to create operational harmony in growing businesses. They explore the dynamic relationship between CEOs and COOs, the importance of role clarity, and why delegation is key to scaling sustainably. Diane also shares practical strategies for fostering a company culture that thrives on accountability and collaboration.