#71 "Teresa Gonzales: Advocating for Representation in the Tech Industry"

ReDesign YOUR LYFE

In this podcast, Teresa Gonzales joins host Lion to address the lack of representation of people of color in the technology industry. As a third-generation Mexican-American, Teresa shares her experiences as one of the few Latinas in the room during her years working in the tech sector. She questions why, despite increased access to STEM education and efforts to promote diversity, Latinos are still not adequately represented in the tech industry, including at dominant companies like Google. Teresa believes that there is a systemic issue and gatekeeping within the sector, and she aims to address these issues through her podcast, which focuses on empowering all people of color in the tech field.

In this episode, the speaker explores the power of quieting oneself and seeking guidance from a higher power. They share a personal experience of meditating to calm their anxious mind, which unexpectedly resulted in booking two clients that day. This positive outcome highlights the effectiveness of seeking guidance and being open to receiving messages from a higher power. The speaker acknowledges the difficulty of relaxing and trusting in this process, especially when there is a constant need to grind and take action. However, they suggest that athletes understand the importance of rest to perform at their peak, and individuals can condition their minds to recognize the value of rest and quieting down for optimal results. The speaker concludes by stating that mastering this practice can be powerful not only in a job search but also in sourcing clients or other endeavors.

Investing in and building a community can have a positive impact on the environment, motivation, and opportunities for individuals. When individuals invest in their community and collaborate with other members, it generates monetary resources that are reinvested back into the community, creating a healthier environment. The availability of resources and support within the community motivates individuals to seek education, improve their health, and pursue opportunities for skill development. Building or starting a business within a community can also serve as a personal challenge and growth opportunity. However, it is important to note that not everyone may be interested in entrepreneurship, and that is perfectly acceptable.

Additionally, community businesses can significantly influence the neighborhood and surrounding area. Many individuals have side hustles or engage in creative endeavors outside of their regular jobs due to dissatisfaction or inadequate compensation. These side businesses provide extra income and contribute to the overall economic growth of the community. It is crucial for individuals to identify their unique qualities and how they can utilize their expertise and knowledge to solve problems and help others in the community. By doing so, they establish themselves as valuable contributors to the community.

Furthermore, community support is vital for entrepreneurs and business owners. Although putting in extra hours and determining what is worthwhile can be challenging, having the support of the community can make a significant difference. The podcast host mentions supporting small businesses by running specials and doing ads for them, even if they cannot afford traditional forms of advertising. This kind of community support not only benefits the businesses but also helps individuals who may not be able to afford certain products or services. By investing in and supporting the community, businesses can build relationships, establish trust, and attract customers. This fosters the sharing of information and resources within the community, ultimately benefiting everyone involved.

In the episode, the host emphasizes the importance of resting and taking breaks for optimal performance, drawing a parallel to professional athletes who rest before a big game. The host highlights that athletes understand the need to rest in order to perform at their peak and have trainers and coaches who help them rest, reset, and prepare their muscles. Similarly, in other aspects of life such as job searches or sourcing clients, the host suggests that taking time to relax and not constantly grind can lead to better outcomes. Although it can be challenging for individuals who feel the need to constantly work and accomplish tasks, the host emphasizes the importance of conditioning the mind to recognize the need for rest. Just like professional athletes, individuals need to prioritize rest and relaxation to perform at their best.