Leaders On the Mic

In this podcast by Elevate Latinos, discover the untold stories of Latino perseverance, success, and empowerment beyond stereotypes that are driving America’s economic growth. Join host, Ana Valdez, as she engages with inspiring high-profile guests offering valuable experience, practical insights, and a narrative often absent from mainstream media; one that highlights the true new mainstream. Whether you’re seeking role models, actionable knowledge, or a fresh perspective, this podcast provides the tools to inspire and empower your journey.


Ana Valdez, Host


Ana Valdez has been named one of the Top 10 Latinos in America in 2018 by Hispanic Magazine, one of the Top 50 Most Influential Latinas in the U.S. in 2020, one of the Top 100 Latinas by Latino Leaders Magazine in 2021, one of the eight CHANGEMAKERS within the 2021 Fifty Most Powerful Latinas by ALPFA, and one of the 100 Top Latino Leaders by Latino Leaders Magazine in 2022.

Ana Valdez, President and CEO of The Latino Donor Collaborative and the Co-Founder and President of Valdez Productions, Inc. She has 25 years of experience in media, research, marketing, and communications. She served on the SiTV Board of Directors, chaired the Southern California Public Radio Board of Trustees (KPCC), and has also served on the American Public Media Grou and the Minnesota Public Radio Boards, to name a few.

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!

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.

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.

Ana Valdez, host of the Leaders On the Mic Podcast, gives a brief introduction of what the topics, data and style that will be present in the upcoming

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 and entertaining Latino influencers redefining humor, culture, and representation across digital platforms. Christian shares how he built a massive following by turning everyday Latino experiences into comedy that connects deeply with audiences, and how using his authentic voice online has made him a cultural bridge for millions.

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.