Performance Parakone

Empowering Latinas in the Corporate World

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0000

In this episode of the Performance Parakone Podcast, hosts Marcos and Suleyma welcome Katherine Garcia to discuss her journey from El Salvador to becoming a successful interior designer in Omaha. They explore her educational path, the challenges of being a first-generation Latina in the corporate world, and the importance of community and mentorship. Katherine shares her aspirations for the future and offers valuable advice for young professionals looking to break into their desired fields. The episode also highlights the dynamic relationship between the two sisters, showcasing their support for each other as they navigate their careers.

This is a Hurrdat ONE Production. Hurrdat ONE is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat ONE Network by going to Hurrdat ONE Website or visit Hurrdat ONE YouTube Channel!

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Rita Rodriguez of Monarkia Institute

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0000

In episode 13 of the Performance Parakone podcast, hosts Marcos Becerra and Suleyma Garcia welcome the inspiring Rita Rodriguez, a bilingual media specialist at Omaha Public Power District (OPPD) and the founder of Monarkia Institute. Rita shares her incredible journey from her childhood in Mexico to becoming a leader in the Latino community in Omaha.

Connect with Rita on Linked in

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rita-rodr%C3%ADguez-9660632b

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Celebrating the Achievements of the BSF Scholarship

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0000

In the season 1 finale of the Performance Parakone podcast, hosts Marcos Becerra and Suleyma Garcia recap the achievements of the Barriento Scholarship Foundation over the past year, including fundraising milestones, the growth of the Student Success Program, and the announcement of scholarship recipients.

They discuss upcoming events, community engagement initiatives, and personal stories that highlight their connection to the community. The episode emphasizes the importance of support and solidarity within the community, especially during challenging times.

Interested in the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation? Learn more here:

https://www.barrientosscholarship.org/

Local:

GoFundMe for Impacted Families:

https://linktr.ee/privaterelay01

CIRA hotline for impacted families to get pro bono legal representation:

402-884-0876

Attorneys looking to provide pro bono support can join the CIRA network:

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspxid=bYdLbkfZPUOYDCNz1yij-bOdbYbI7rZ

CnpGdxDdhbgZUM1NBWExaRjVKTUoxSUlJNDBKRzc4QVRXVS4u

Help locate somebody whose been detained:

https://locator.ice.gov/odls/#/search

Families afectadas que necesitan una ayudar además de representacion legal pueden llenar esta forma:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfKuTpLNEXYs4ppf8kmGCWF3xhSECtDaFsqh4jT85FNt3bICA/viewform

Donate to the bond fund for detained individuals:

https://www.prairielandsfreedomfund.org/donate

National:

Become an interpreter at NIJC: immigrantjustice.org

Print and carry a Red Card:

Download it from https://www.ilrc.org/red-cards-tarjetas-rojas - it lists your rights during encounters with ICE

Connect with an immigration lawyer. Find legal help through immdef.org/resources and ailalawyer.com

Know Your Rights: ACLU offers toolkits for immigrants at

aclu.org/know-your-rights/immigrants-rights

BSF

2025 recipients: https://www.barrientosscholarship.org/recipients

Upcoming events: https://www.barrientosscholarship.org/events

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More Than Just a Dream, BSF Then and Now with Tony Aguilera

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode of the Performance Parakone podcast, hosts Marcos Becerra and Suleyma Garcia sit down with Tony Aguilera, the president of the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation (BSF) board. As they dive into the importance of community support and educational opportunities for Latino students in Nebraska, Tony shares his inspiring journey and the pivotal role BSF plays in empowering first-generation college students.

Tony discusses his experiences in mentoring youth and building career pathways, emphasizing the significance of internships and mentorships in navigating the workforce. He reflects on the challenges he faced while pursuing higher education and how those experiences shape his vision for the future of BSF. Marcos and Suleyma explore the foundation's growth, including its expansion into trades and the introduction of the Student Success Skills Program, designed to equip students with essential life skills and career readiness.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the scholarship application process, which opens on March 1st and closes on March 31st, as well as the importance of community partnerships in creating opportunities for students. Join us as we celebrate the power of perseverance, mentorship, and the transformative impact of education.

You can go to the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation website to apply:

https://www.barrientosscholarship.org/apply-now

List of scholarships:

BSF, In Honor of Ella and Vidal Barrientos, Arts/Education - $6,000

CHI Health, Healthcare - $1,000

Cinco de Mayo Omaha, Communications, Journalism, Marketing - $4,000

Clarkson College, Healthcare - $2,500

Geena Gomez, Masters in Education/Special Education - $5,000

JE Dunn, Construction Mgt. at UNK, UNL, or UNO - $5,000

Lozafina, General - $1,000

MagicTouch/Eddie Sandoval, Nursing - $2,500

MagicTouch, Business - $2,500

Methodist College, Healthcare - $2,500

Nebraska Furniture Mart,

Business/Communications - $3,000

Metro Community College Only

BSF/MCC, Any - $5,000

CHI Health/MCC, Healthcare - $5,000

JE Dunn/MCC, Trades - $5,000

MagicTouch/MCC, Trades - $5,000

Omaha Public Power District (OPPD)/MCC, Trades - $5,000

This is a Hurrdat ONE Production. Hurrdat ONE is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or visit Hurrdat ONE YouTube Channel!

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The Power of Representation in Marketing & PR with Tally & Michelle

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In this milestone 10th episode of Performance Parakone, Marcos and Suleyma celebrate with special guests Tally Velasco and Michelle Vega from Lozafina Marketing. As partners of the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation, Tally and Michelle share their insights on the importance of community engagement and the role their Latina-owned marketing firm plays in uplifting diverse voices in Omaha.

Tally, the executive digital content curator, discusses her journey in digital content creation and the challenges of promoting clients while managing a busy schedule. Michelle, the executive director of creative designs, reflects on her path from a sports marketing internship to leading design efforts at Lozafina. Together, they explore the dynamics of working in a predominantly white industry and the impact of being a woman of color in the marketing field.

Xitlally “Tally” Velasco is the Executive Digital Content Curator at Lozafina Marketing and Public Relations. She is a University of Nebraska at Omaha journalism graduate with a concentration in public relations and advertising and a minor in Psychology. Velasco is a first-generation college student with roots in Oaxaca, Mexico. Her work interests include copywriting, editing, marketing, social media management, and event planning. You can contact Tally at tally.lozafina@gmail.com.

Michelle Vega is the Executive Director of Creative Designs at Lozafina Marketing and Public Relations. She also proudly served in the Girl Talk Sports Marketing & Communications Internship Program, co-created by Lozafina and EPIC for Girls. Michelle is a University of Nebraska Omaha graphic design graduate and a Goodrich Scholarship Scholar. You can contact Michelle at michelle.lozafina@gmail.com.

Link to their website https://www.lozafina.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lozafina/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/lozafinallc/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/LozafinaLLC

Twitter: https://x.com/LozaFina

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The Sky is the Limit, Diego Martinez on Overcoming Barriers to Education

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Performance Parakone, Marcos and Suleyma welcome Diego Martinez, a passionate student and advocate for the immigrant community. Diego shares his compelling journey from Guadalajara, Mexico, to Omaha, NE, detailing the challenges and triumphs of adapting to a new culture and language. His story is one of resilience and determination as he navigates the complexities of higher education without the privileges many take for granted.

Diego opens up about his aspirations in aviation and the importance of giving back to your community through the Barrientos Scholarship Foundation (BSF). He discusses the struggles of finding financial aid without a Social Security number and the crucial role BSF plays in supporting the dreams of students who may be in similar situations. Diego's dedication to helping others is evident through his involvement in various projects, including developing a mental health app for students and volunteering his interpreting skills for the Omaha Public Schools.

This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and community support, showcasing how Diego uses his talents to uplift others while pursuing his dreams of becoming a pilot. Join us as we explore Diego's inspiring journey and the impact of BSF in empowering students like him.

This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

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A 2nd Generation of Change, A Conversation with Marcos Becerra

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0000

In the 8th episode of Performance Parakone, we turn the tables and dive deep into the inspiring journey of our very own co-host, Marcos Becerra. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Marcos shares his experiences navigating life as a second-generation Latino, the influence of his family's legacy, and his passion for storytelling through film and marketing. From his upbringing in Houston, TX to his academic journey in Austin, TX, Marcos opens up about the challenges and triumphs that have shaped his path.

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Live from Omaha Michelada Fest, Latino Entrepreneurship at the Riverfront.

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0000

Live from the Omaha Michelada Fest, join Marcos & Suleyma for another exciting episode of the Performance Parakone podcast! This episode features an in-depth conversation with Carlos Hurtado, founder of the Omaha Michelada Fest and Toximiche, and his business partner and wife Dayana Hurtado. They dive into the challenges and triumphs of organizing the first Latino festival at the riverfront, the importance of community and family support, and their entrepreneurial journeys.

00:00 – Welcome Carlos

04:02 – 1st Latino festival at the riverfront

09:26 – Advice to new entrepreneurs

10:40 – Listen to ¡Ay Apa! Podcast

15:18 – Welcome Dayana

20:34 – Supera Designs

26:04 – Expectations as a Latina

Resources

Omaha Michelada Fest

https://www.omahamichefest.com/

¡Ay Apa! Podcast

https://www.instagram.com/ay_apapodcast?igsh=dW5uOWFsNzdqazFi

Supera Designs

https://www.instagram.com/superadesigns?igsh=MW1wZDg0a3owbGNjdg==

Embolden Network

https://www.instagram.com/emboldennetwork?igsh=NjA0Ym00d3B4enRh

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From Startups to Healthcare, Exploring New Opportunities with NMotion and NASH

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Join us for a special episode recorded live from the Pinnacle Bank Championship at the Indian Creek golf course. Hosts Marcos Vidal and Tony welcome Mike Agostino from Nash and Scott Henderson from Nmotion, powered by Gener8or. This episode dives deep into the essence of community building at events like the Pinnacle Bank Championship and explores the intersection of healthcare and entrepreneurship, particularly focusing on opportunities and pathways for the Latino community.

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Undocumented & Unstoppable: A Conversation with Yanira Garcia

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0000

In this exciting new episode of Performance Parakone, we have the privilege of hosting Yanira Garcia, a distinguished member of the Latino Economic Development Council and Senior Strategic Implementations Associate at FNBO. Yanira shares her inspiring journey from Mexico to Omaha, navigating the challenges of being a first-generation college student, and her impactful work in the community.

Yanira delves into the importance of mentorship, getting involved in extracurricular activities, and overcoming imposter syndrome. She also highlights her experiences in the marketing industry, her time at Telemundo, and the significance of representation and support for Latinas in professional spaces. Yanira's story is a testament to resilience, community, and the power of challenging oneself to achieve greatness.

Resources

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yanira-garcia-m-a-b3376a86/?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

https://www.thedream.us/

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Decoding Latino Demographics: Latino Trends Explored with Itzel Lopez

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 22:00:00 -0000

In this episode Itzel Lopez, CEO of the Latino Economic Development Council (LEDC), delves into the data shaping the Latino population's growth, both nationally and locally, and discusses solutions to challenges like Brain Drain in Nebraska including putting more focus on areas of education like STEM. We’ll also speak with a special guest, Efren Mendoza, a former BSF Scholar, to learn about his path into the health workforce and the opportunities he has built for himself and his family.

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Building Up The Latino Community, A Round Table Conversation with BSF Partners

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 20:56:00 -0000

Join us as we bring in leaders in Omaha’s Latino community; Geena Gomez from Alvarez Insurance, Loreno Jameson with the Latino Society of OPPD (LSO), and Jason Studt, VP of JE Dunn Construction. We discuss the challenges, and the reality of giving back as a small business like Alvarez Insurance. As well as the ways companies like JE Dunn and OPPD get involved, get engaged, and then get connected. No matter the size of the company, there’s a way for everyone to make a difference. And for students, this is a great opportunity to learn about how employers think and what they’re searching for. Don’t miss out on this specially formatted episode of Performance Parakone!

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Students, Parents, and a Passion

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0000

On this episode we get the opportunity to talk to Barrientos Scholarship Recipient, Odwuar Quinonez, about his journey and obstacles in pursuing his Bachelor’s, and now Master’s Degree as a 1st-Generation Latino in Nebraska. He brings on his mother who describes the struggles of raising her son her in America, but preserving through it all and providing her son the opportunity to pursue his dreams.

Resources

https://www.barrientosscholarship.org/

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Performance Parakone: $500 and a Dream with Marcos Mora

Fri, 03 May 2024 05:00:00 -0000

Tune in to the first episode of the Performance Parakone podcast, where the spotlight shines on the Barriento Scholarship Foundation's (BSF) dedication to Latino education. Hosts Marcos Vidal and Suleyma Garcia Mendez engage in a compelling dialogue with Marcos Mora, exploring the foundation's history, its connection to the community, and the future of Latino empowerment in Omaha and beyond. Don't miss this insightful conversation that celebrates culture, education, and the power of dreaming big.

- Marcos Mora, Executive Director of Casa de la Cultura (as well as Cinco de Mayo Omaha)

- Websites: CDMOmaha.com & culturaomaha.org

- Social Media: Instagram (cdmomaha), Facebook (CINCO DE MAYO OMAHA), LinkedIn (CINCO DE MAYO OMAHA)

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