Latino Leaders

Pablo Muñoz

Develop and Inspire Public Education Leaders Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast dedicated to developing the leadership skills of current and prospective PreK-12 school administrators. Listen to host Pablo Muñoz as he interviews accomplished Latina and Latino public education leaders. Each episode features a conversation between Pablo and a guest who shares advice, resources, and insightful stories to help you grow as a leader. Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm. Latino Leaders has been singled out as one of the Best Podcast Shows in the world for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and a 2025 Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards. Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.comPurchase The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithmLearn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munozLinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1Email:  pablo@themunozcompany.com 

  1. 3d ago

    Michigan ALAS with Sergio Keck

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for a meaningful conversation with his featured guest — Sergio Keck. Sergio is the deputy superintendent of special populations for the Lansing School District in Michigan.  He is a Latino educational leader with over 35 years in the profession, and he has worked as an instructional assistant, teacher, assistant principal, principal, and director.  Sergio is the founder of language immersion schools, and he oversees bilingual services, early childhood, adult education, and workforce development programs. 1:03 - Introduction 2:28 - My Leadership Story 17:01 - MI-ALAS 24:26 - Latino Identity 28:04 - Strengthen the Latino Pipeline 32:57 - Leadership Can Be Very Fragile 37:53 - Immersion and Alternative Education 44:09 - Fostering Global Citizenship 48:00 - Guiding Principles 53:57 - Coda Sergio Keck is originally from Argentina and immigrated to the United States at age 14.  He is the current president and founder of the Michigan Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (MI-ALAS).  Sergio established a highly successful Chinese immersion program, created a Spanish immersion program at the elementary school level, and implemented an alternative blended model of instruction for disengaged high school students. Sergio earned a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University.  He received a master’s degree from Michigan State University.  Sergio also completed postgraduate work at Oakland University. LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/sergio-keck-b6820133 Website:  mialas.org/ Email:  sergiokeck17@gmail.com Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards. Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays. Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm. For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com Purchase 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:  pablo@themunozcompany.com

  2. Aug 10

    Against All Odds with Madeline Negrón

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for an exceptional conversation with his featured guest — Madeline Negrón. Madeline proudly serves as the superintendent of the New Haven Public Schools in Connecticut.  With over 30 years of experience across Connecticut’s most diverse urban school districts, her leadership work is deeply personal.  Madeline draws on her lived experience to dismantle barriers and has dedicated her career to driving academic growth and equity. 1:03 - Introduction 2:02 - My Leadership Story 15:47 - Against All Odds 28:16 - New Haven Public Schools 34:03 - Hartford Public Schools 39:39 - CALAS 44:22 - Educational Leadership 49:18 - Chief Learner, Chief Teacher 55:12 - Guiding Principles 59:49 - Coda Dr. Madeline Negrón is driven by her personal experience as a multilingual learner who moved from Puerto Rico to Willimantic, Connecticut as a child.  Her leadership spans every level of public education.  Madeline began her career as a bilingual teacher in Windham Public Schools before moving into administration.  She previously served as the principal of Hill Regional Career Magnet High School, director of early childhood, and director of instruction for the New Haven Public Schools.  Madeline also served as a senior executive for the Hartford Public Schools. Madeline is a prominent voice in Latino education policy.  Her leadership has earned state and national acclaim, including the 2025 Maria C. Sánchez Education Award, the 2023 ALAS Assistant Superintendent of the Year Award, and recognition in EdWeek’s 2022 "Leaders to Learn From."  Madeline is a co-founder and past president of the Connecticut Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (CALAS). Madeline earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and bilingual education from Central Connecticut State University.  She received a master’s degree and doctorate from the University of Connecticut.  Madeline also completed the Fellowship for Public Education Leadership at The Broad Center at the Yale School of Management. LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/dr-madeline-negron-a0309771 Facebook:  facebook.com/p/Superintendent-Negr%C3%B3n-100093852625572/ Email:  madeline.negron@new-haven.k12.ct.us Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards. Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays. Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm. For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com Purchase 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:  pablo@themunozcompany.com

  3. Aug 3 ·  Bonus

    Encore 3 — Be Your Best with Juan Santos

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for an honest and vulnerable conversation with his featured guest — Juan Santos. Juan is proud to be the president 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 43:19 - Coda 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. This Encore episode was first published as Latino Leaders Episode 40 on December 23, 2024. LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/dr-juan-manuel-santos-0a13312a Website:  calsa.org/ Email:  jsantos@vcoe.org Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards. Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays. Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm. For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com Purchase 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:  pablo@themunozcompany.com

  4. Jul 27

    Baloney, Baloney, Baloney with Robert Alfaro

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for a fascinating conversation with his featured guest — Robert Alfaro. Robert is a champion for educational equity, and his journey from a non-English speaking background to leadership inspires all of us.  He is the best-selling author of the book Baloney, Baloney, Baloney, in which he shares his personal experiences with overcoming adversity.  Robert is the CEO of Alfaro Education Services, where he empowers aspiring superintendents to transform education for all students. 1:03 - Introduction 2:30 - My Leadership Story 17:53 - Taking Action 25:09 - Change Agent 37:25 - Focusing on Student Achievement 42:46 - More Hispanic Leaders 47:39 - Unforeseen Consequences 56:01 - Baloney, Baloney, Baloney! 1:03:46 - Robert vs. Roberto 1:05:18 - Principal 1:10:10 - Guiding Principles 1:15:23 - Coda Robert Alfaro is a nationally respected education leader with more than three decades of transformative impact across public, private, and charter school systems.  His career reflects an extraordinary rise from classroom teacher to superintendent of schools within major districts such as San Antonio Independent School District in Texas and Clark County School District in Nevada.  Robert has led sweeping districtwide reforms that modernized infrastructure, increased operational efficiency, and significantly improved student outcomes through data-driven instruction. Robert received a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Sul Ross State University.  He is a graduate of the Broad Urban Superintendents Academy and the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association Academy.  Robert is especially proud to have received the Nevada Educator of the Year Award from the Nevada State Parent-Teacher Organization, recognizing his unwavering commitment to family and community engagement. LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/robert-alfaro-22363836 Website:  alfaroeducates.com/ Email:  robert.alfaro51@outlook.com Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards. Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays. Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm. For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com Purchase 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:  pablo@themunozcompany.com

  5. Jul 20

    Leading with Heart, Culture, and Purpose with Carmen Vargas

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for an enlightening conversation with his featured guest — Carmen Vargas. Carmen is the director of multilingual programs and world languages for Peekskill City School District in New York.  She is a proud Latina leader and former English language learner.  Carmen is passionate about empowering multilingual students, families, and communities through advocacy, equity, and culturally responsive education. 1:03 - Introduction 2:03 - My Leadership Story 18:59 - Motherhood 20:31 - Multilingual Learners 25:26 - Empowering Latino Families 30:43 - Latina Leaders 34:48 - Language, Culture, and Identity 38:10 - Early Childhood Education 42:05 - Guiding Principles 49:08 - Coda Carmen Vargas was born in the Dominican Republic and moved to the United States at the age of 10.  Her personal experience as a former English language learner continues to shape her passion to advocate for multilingual students and families.  Carmen has more than 28 years of experience in bilingual education and has served in several leadership roles, including principal of Uriah Hill Jr. Elementary School. Carmen received a bachelor’s degree from Lehman College.  She holds a master’s degree from Mercy College.  Carmen received a second master’s degree from Fordham University. Website:  peekskillcsd.org/home-21 Email:  cvargas@peekskillschools.org Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards. Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays. Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm. For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com Purchase 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:  pablo@themunozcompany.com

  6. Jul 13

    Culturally Responsive Leadership with Diurca Lugo-Tomasella

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for an engaging conversation with his featured guest — Diurca Lugo-Tomasella. Diurca is the founding principal of Roberto Clemente International Dual Language School in Waterbury, Connecticut.  She is a veteran educator with over 30 years of experience specializing in bilingual, regular, and Spanish education.  Diurca is an award-winning principal honored by the Connecticut Association of Schools and the Connecticut Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents for her outstanding leadership in bilingual education. 1:03 - Introduction 2:14 - My Leadership Story 15:45 - Dual Language School 19:30 - Culturally Responsive Leadership 21:51 - Ensuring Every Child Achieves 24:42 - Focus on the Whole Child 27:12 - Resilience, Adaptability, and High Expectations 29:23 - Mindset and Instruction 32:34 - Guiding Principles Diurca Lugo-Tomasella is a graduate of the National Institute for School Leadership (NISL) with professional development training in the major areas of world-class schooling, vision, and goals.  She was awarded the Women of Color Education Collaborative (WOCEC) National Principal Fellowship 2024.  Diurca is an active member of the Connecticut Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (CALAS). Diurca received a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Western Connecticut State University.  She earned a master’s degree in education from the University of Bridgeport.  Diurca was awarded the Superintendent’s Impact of the Year Award 2026 by the Waterbury Public Schools. LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/diurca-lugo-tomasella-9b61064a Email:  dtomasella@waterbury.k12.ct.us Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards. Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays. Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm. For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com Purchase 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:  pablo@themunozcompany.com

  7. Jul 6

    Equity-Focused Leadership with Georgina Rivera

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for a marvelous conversation with his featured guest — Georgina Rivera. Georgina is a school principal in West Hartford, Connecticut.  She is a leader in equitable math instruction, teacher leadership, culturally relevant practice, and multilingual learners.  Georgina is a nationally recognized thought leader, author, and keynote speaker in mathematics education and leadership. 1:03 - Introduction 1:58 - My Leadership Story 28:56 - Charter Oak International Academy 35:24 - STEM 41:14 - Equity-Focused Leadership 46:57 - Promoting Teacher Agency 52:10 - Author 56:27 - Multilingual Learners 1:04:29 - Cognitive Load 1:07:14 - Guiding Principles Georgina Rivera is the principal of Charter Oak International Academy, an International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program school in West Hartford, Connecticut.  She previously served as a middle school mathematics teacher, district-wide elementary mathematics coach, and elementary education STEM supervisor.  Georgina is an author, and her book titles include Math by the Book (Grade 1), Answers to Your Biggest Questions About Teaching Elementary Math, Culturally Relevant Mathematics Leadership, and the K-5 and 6-8 Reveal Math Textbook Series by McGraw Hill. Georgina received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in mathematics education from Central Connecticut State University. LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/georgina-rivera-m-ed-b582aa272 Email:  georginarivera123@gmail.com Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards. Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays. Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm. For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com Purchase 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:  pablo@themunozcompany.com

  8. Jun 29

    Power of Access with Jenny Rodriguez

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for a powerful conversation with his featured guest — Jenny Rodriguez. Jenny is a passionate educational leader who believes that in the right environment, all learners can succeed.  She is a proud Latina born in Puerto Rico to Dominican parents.  Jenny uses authentic leadership and a relationship-centered approach to turn equity into meaningful action and lasting change. 1:03 - Introduction 1:57 - My Leadership Story 27:54 - Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging 38:22 - Assistant Principal 42:35 - Latina Leaders 46:19 - Expeditionary Learning 50:34 - Power of Access 53:47 - First-Generation Students 56:33 - Guiding Principles Jenny Rodriguez is a first-generation college graduate raised in the South Bronx, New York City.  Her personal and professional journey has shaped her deep commitment to educational access, belonging, and opportunity for historically underserved students and families.  Jenny has led professional learning and collaborative initiatives focused on culturally responsive practices, anti-bias education, and family engagement. Jenny brings both compassion and strategic vision to her work.  She is committed to helping schools move equity from conversation to action by creating spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and empowered to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.  Jenny inspires educators and communities to rethink what is possible when access, support, and opportunity are intentionally prioritized. Jenny received a bachelor’s degree in international relations and Spanish language, literature, and culture from Syracuse University.  She holds a master’s degree in comparative international education from Teachers College, Columbia University.  Jenny earned a second master’s degree in school building leadership from Mercy University. LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/jenny-rodriguez-52a9688 Email:  jrodriguez@mamkschools.org Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast that was named a Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards. Latino Leaders publishes new episodes weekly on Mondays. Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm. For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.com Purchase 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:  pablo@themunozcompany.com

Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Develop and Inspire Public Education Leaders Latino Leaders is an award-winning podcast dedicated to developing the leadership skills of current and prospective PreK-12 school administrators. Listen to host Pablo Muñoz as he interviews accomplished Latina and Latino public education leaders. Each episode features a conversation between Pablo and a guest who shares advice, resources, and insightful stories to help you grow as a leader. Pablo is a leadership coach, teacher, trainer, and speaker who is also the author of The Leader’s Algorithm. Latino Leaders has been singled out as one of the Best Podcast Shows in the world for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and a 2025 Silver Winner in the 4th Annual Signal Awards. Latino Leaders podcast is a production of Muñoz & Company, an educational and leadership consulting organization. For additional information visit:  themunozcompany.comPurchase The Leader’s Algorithm:  themunozcompany.com/the-leaders-algorithmLearn more about Pablo:  themunozcompany.com/pablo-munozLinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/pablo-muñoz-b30b2ab1Email:  pablo@themunozcompany.com