Did you know that Latina women earn only 53 cents to every dollar compared to men and hold a mere 2% of executive positions despite being 9% of the U.S. population?

In this episode of Women of Influence, we welcome Cynthia Kleinbaum Milner and Claudia Romo Edelman, two powerhouse Latinas championing the cause for Latina representation in leadership roles. With a lack of visible role models and adequate networking opportunities, Latinas face unique challenges. Cynthia and Claudia share their personal stories, the mission behind their cause and podcast, A La Latina, and the importance of changing the narrative around Latinas in the U.S. This episode is a deep dive into breaking barriers, flipping the script on biases, and promoting leadership.

Key Highlights from the Episode:

• Understanding the Challenges and hurdles Latinas face in the corporate environment, including lack of role models and networking opportunities.
• A La Latina: Emphasizing the importance of taking risks and authenticity in corporate settings. See how the podcast is empowering Latinas by offering a playbook to help Latinas navigate corporate challenges while staying true to themselves.
• Learn about the expansion of A La Latina into a comprehensive network that connects professional Latinas both in-person and digitally across cities, providing mentors, sponsors, and a support system.
• Hear insights from Claudia and Cynthia on how embracing their Latina identity became a superpower and the lessons others can pull from their success stories.
• Learn how Cynthia and Claudia have a commitment to spreading the empowering message to both Latinas and non-Latinas, reinforcing the possibility of achieving their goal while focusing on strengths and taking a risk without waiting for permission.
• Hear how both Cynthia and Claudia emphasize the importance of taking risks early in life, assuring listeners that it’s okay to leap.
• Economic and Representation Issues: Discussion on the Hispanic community’s impact on the U.S. economy, underrepresentation in executive roles, and the need for equitable wages for Latina women.
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Links & Resources

Want to learn more & follow?

Claudia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiaromoedelman/

Cynthia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-kleinbaum-milner-63685b2/

Website: https://www.alalatina.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alalatinapodcast/

Learn more about the Hispanic Leadership Summit and Hispanic Star Gala

https://www.hispanicstar.org/hls

https://www.hispanicstar.org/gala

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• Contact us at podcast@shespeaks.com
• WATCH our podcast on YouTube @SheSpeaksTV

In this fun episode, our guest Laurie Schacht, the President & Chief Toy Officer at Toy Insider, gives us an inside look into the toy industry and how she got her start. Laurie shares her unique story, from growing up rooted in the toy business to unexpectedly taking over her father's business, reestablishing The Toy Book and launching The Toy Insider. Laurie discusses the evolution of toys, key industry trends, and what to expect in the upcoming holiday season. Plus, she offers an exclusive sneak peek into what’s hot for 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Laurie’s Start in the Industry: Laurie grew up surrounded by the toy world, as her father started The Toy Book, a B2B magazine still thriving today, thanks to Laurie nd her team. Laurie took the reins of the company unexpectedly and rebuilt it with the help of her dedicated team.
• The Toy Insider: After restoring The Toy Book, Laurie launched The Toy Insider, offering a trusted, unbiased list of the hottest toys, a concept that has gained immense popularity.
• Changes in the Toy Industry: Laurie reflects on the consolidation of smaller toy companies and independent stores, the shift in gender dynamics, and the rise of women in leadership within the industry.
• The Role of Influencers: Laurie discusses how influencers, particularly on platforms like TikTok, have become a significant part of toy marketing, helping companies predict trends and drive consumer interest.
• Hot Toy Trends for 2024/2025: Laurie shared upcoming trends like AI integration in toys and a continued emphasis on “analog” playtime, with toys that engage kids without screens.
• Memorable Stories: A hilarious story involving Laurie and Al Roker during a segment on The Today Show and a Big Hugs Elmo toy!

Links & Resources

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetoyinsider/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoyinsider
• Website: The Toy Insider
• Laurie Schacht
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-schacht-b3b5035/

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• Contact us at podcast@shespeaks.com
• WATCH our podcast on YouTube @SheSpeaksTV

Over the past 2 years, the SheSpeaks podcast has shared the stories of amazing women. Recently, we announced a new name, Women of Influence. We’re excited about this shift as we feel it defines best what we have always done and continue to do, amplify the stories and experiences of amazing women.

We realized the common thread through our conversations was women using their influence to build, to grow, to share and inspire. All of these amazing women, be it founders, CEOs, authors, experts, celebrities, and change-makers have done just that. As we head into new episodes, we will continue to have conversations, learn from women, hear their stories, and see how their influence is effecting change and inspiring others.

Join us as we revisit some standout moments from episodes over the years:

From Baby Jars to Beauty Bars with Lisa Price

Lisa Price, the founder of Carol's Daughter, shared her inspiring journey of becoming an "accidental entrepreneur." Despite not having a business background, Lisa turned her hobby into a thriving beauty empire.

Tackling Teenage Mental Health with Lisa Damore

Expert Lisa Damore provided eye-opening insights into teenage mental health - from understanding healthy anxiety to addressing the commercialization of wellness.

Evolving at Any Age with Stacey London

Stacey London of TLC's What Not to Wear fame inspired us by discussing her journey to pivot her career and create a voice for midlife women. She spoke about the importance of personal agency and the freedom to evolve at any stage in life.

Rethinking Beauty Standards with Jessica Defino

Jessica Defino shined a light on the problematic aspects of the beauty industry. She discussed how the industry has co-opted the concept of beauty and commoditized it, making it a struggle for many to attain the standards.

Transparency in Influencing with Kristen Sellentin

Kristen Sellentin's viral reel revealed her earnings as a content creator, sparking a positive conversation about transparency and success in the influencer world. She emphasized that it's never too late to pivot your career and find success.

Want to listen to all the episodes featured here?

Lisa Price - From Baby Jars to Beauty Bars: The Rise of Carol’s Daughter

Dr. Lisa Damour - Teenage Mental Health and Social Media

Stacy London - Evolving at Any Age

Jessica DeFino - Changing the Conversation Round Beauty

Kristen Sellentin - Why this Creator Revealed Her 6 Figure Earnings for the Year

Want more from SheSpeaks?

* Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! *

• Connect with us on Instagram, FB & Twitter @shespeaksup
• Contact us at podcast@shespeaks.com
• WATCH our podcast on YouTube @SheSpeaksTV