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. 19h ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. Jun 22

    Building Coherent Schools with Mercedes Fonseca

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for an outstanding conversation with his featured guest — Mercedes Fonseca. Mercedes is an education leader and advocate for multilingual learners focused on helping schools create coherent, student-centered systems.  Her work is grounded in comunidad, opportunity, and impact.  Mercedes is the director of academics for TNTP in Dallas, Texas, where she works at the intersection of curriculum, leadership, biliteracy, and educational access. 1:03 - Introduction 2:06 - My Leadership Story 25:55 - Pobrecito Syndrome 27:09 - Latinos for Education 28:19 - Building Coherent Schools 32:01 - AI Integration 33:17 - Digital Promise 34:22 - Ultimate Test of a School System 38:00 - Latina Leaders 42:04 - Code Switching 43:36 - Belonging Before Achievement 46:41 - Hidden Cost of Mixed Messages 50:05 - Intentionally Designed Pathways 55:28 - Guiding Principles Mercedes Fonseca is a first-generation Latina education leader, speaker, and instructional coherence strategist with more than 20 years of experience supporting schools and districts across the country.  She has partnered with more than 30 school systems to strengthen curriculum implementation, instructional leadership, and equitable learning experiences for historically underserved students.  Mercedes frequently speaks at national and regional conferences on multilingual learner success, instructional coherence, belonging, and pathways to opportunity. Mercedes received a bachelor’s degree in professional administration from Barry University.  She earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Concordia University.  Mercedes is a proud alumna of Latinos for Education. LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/mercedes-fonseca-m-ed-aa487ba9 Email:  mercedes.fonseca@tntp.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

  7. Jun 15

    Latina Leader Breaking Cycles with Veronica Ruiz

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for an honest and vulnerable conversation with his featured guest — Veronica Ruiz. Veronica is a proud Latina woman born and raised in Hartford, Connecticut.  She is the co-founder and CEO of Visionary Youth CT.  Veronica is also the director of family, school, and community partnerships at Vernon Public Schools in Connecticut. 1:03 - Introduction 2:00 - My Leadership Story 25:54 - Family, School, and Community Partnerships 29:18 - Visionary Youth CT 40:03 - Youth Advocate Programs 42:46 - Our Piece of the Pie 45:33 - Latina Leader Breaking Cycles 49:51 - Capital City Education Alliance 52:27 - Guiding Principles Veronica Ruiz understands both the challenges and the resilience that exist within underserved communities.  Her experiences inspired her to dedicate her life and career to creating opportunities, resources, and safe spaces for youth and families.  Veronica has over 15 years of experience in human services, youth development, education, workforce development, and nonprofit leadership.  Throughout her career, she has worked extensively with marginalized and underserved populations, leading initiatives centered around equity, restorative practices, trauma-informed care, youth empowerment, and family engagement. Veronica received a bachelor’s degree in human services and a master’s degree in organizational management and leadership from Springfield College.  She earned a second master’s degree in psychology from Capella University.  Veronica is currently a doctoral candidate at Capella University. LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/veronica-ruiz-co-founder-ceo-of-visionary-youth-18883067 Facebook:  facebook.com/people/Visionary-Youth/61584126427020/ Email:  VeronicaRuiz2822@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 8

    Leading with Humanity with Irella Pérez

    Join host Pablo Muñoz for a passionate conversation with his featured guest — Irella Pérez. Irella is a transformative educational leader whose 35-year career spans from instructional assistant to superintendent.  She is grounded in an unwavering commitment to equity and multilingual excellence.  Irella is a Latina Chinese American immigrant scholar from Nicaragua and an author who brings a powerful voice to educational leadership. 1:03 - Introduction 2:14 - My Leadership Story 35:06 - Purpose and Resilience 44:24 - CLEAR 48:23 - Principal 53:37 - Suyensita and Her Adventures 58:15 - Leading with Humanity 1:00:39 - Board of Education 1:04:53 - Guiding Principles Dr. Irella Pérez was born and raised in Nicaragua amid war, dictatorship, and revolution, and her life has been shaped by resilience, displacement, and hope.  She has served as a superintendent, school board trustee, professor, consultant, executive leader, and author.  Irella is Superintendent in Residence for Renaissance Learning, where she serves as a strategic advisor advancing systems reform, transformational leadership, and public affairs. Irella received a bachelor’s degree in Spanish literature and a master’s degree in educational administration from California State University, Long Beach.  She earned a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Southern California.  Irella is founder of the CALSA Hermanas Leading Network and co-founder of Athenas of Happiness. LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/dr-irella-perez-26a53036 Email:  drirellaperez@yahoo.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

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