Corporate Cafecito
Welcome to Corporate Cafecito!
What does it mean to navigate the corporate world as a first-generation college graduate and proud member of the Latine community? Corporate Cafecito is here to help you navigate that journey, blending heartfelt stories, practical advice, and a supportive community where you can thrive.
Meet the Hosts
Corporate Cafecito was founded in 2022 by Nallely Suárez Gass, a first-generation college graduate, coach, and strategist with over two decades of experience. Her successful corporate career and full-time focus on mentoring professionals and entrepreneurs have equipped her with the knowledge to help you unlock your potential and build fulfilling careers. Her passion for uplifting others and celebrating the Latine community is the heart of this podcast.
In January 2025, Carlos Butler Vale joined as co-host, bringing his deep business strategy expertise and strong mentorship dedication. Also a first-generation college graduate, Carlos has made it his mission to help others grow into confident, impactful leaders. Together, Nallely and Carlos create a welcoming space to share stories, offer actionable advice, and inspire growth.
What to Expect
Each week on Corporate Cafecito, you’ll hear meaningful conversations, practical tips, and inspiring stories that celebrate the diverse Latine experience in the workplace. Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Career Growth: You'll receive practical, easy-to-follow advice for advancing your career and building your brand, empowering you to take the next step in your professional journey.
- Leadership Development: How to inspire and lead with authenticity.
- Entrepreneurship: Real-world advice on starting and growing your business, overcoming challenges, and staying motivated.
- Mentorship: Carlos shares how mentorship can open doors, transform careers, and build stronger communities.
- Guest Features: Inspiring guests highlight their stories, share their expertise, and discuss their personal and entrepreneurial journeys.
This podcast isn’t just about professional growth—it’s about celebrating who you are, your unique journey, and the vibrant, supportive Latine community we're building together.
Why Listen?
Corporate Cafecito isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. Nallely and Carlos help you embrace your unique journey, achieve your goals, and feel part of a vibrant, supportive community. Whether looking for career advice, leadership tips, or inspiring stories from real people, this is the place for you.
So, pour yourself a cafecito, take a moment, and join us. Every conversation is a step toward your personal and professional success. Let’s navigate the corporate world together—one cafecito at a time.
Corporate Cafecito
S9 E14 - If Not Now, When? Service, Sacrifice, and Choosing Peace with Michele Garcia
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
She never left, familia. We just refilled the cafecito.
Michele Garcia stayed with me for part two of our Corporate Cafecito conversation, and I’m so grateful she did.
What started as a conversation about her career in law enforcement became something much deeper. We talked about what it means to serve for more than 25 years, to carry the weight of difficult work, to be a Latina in spaces where women were not always expected to lead, and to still find your way with strength, humor, and corazón.
Michele opened up about the personal side of the job too. The impact it can have on your health, your family, your sleep, your peace, and the way you start asking yourself what life should look like after giving so much of yourself to your career.
One part that really stayed with me was how she talked about mentorship.
She saw another young Latina coming up in the department, recognized her potential, and made room for her. Not because she had to, but because she understood what it feels like to be overlooked and what it means when someone finally sees you.
That is what lift as you climb really looks like.
It is honest. It is powerful. And it is a reminder that our stories matter, especially when they help someone else believe that they belong too.
Don't forget to check out her book Model Detective. It’s out now, and she shares her story and what it was really like working those cases. If you want to learn more about her journey, you can visit her website at https://modeldetectivebook.com/.
Watch the episode here now: www.corpcafecito.com
So, what’s in your cafecito today?
If you’d like to join Nallely y Carlos for a conversation, collaborate, or suggest a topic that matters to our community, we would love to hear from you. This podcast centers real conversations that move culture and careers forward. Visit www.corpcafecito.com/contact-us or email admin@corpcafecito.com.
Elevar Development, founded by Nallely Suárez Gass, helps professionals and organizations grow with clarity and purpose. With over two decades of corporate experience, Nallely is known for helping people lead authentically, uncover strengths, and make confident, aligned decisions. Through personalized coaching and impactful workshops, Elevar creates practical, lasting change. Visit www.elevardevelopment.com or email Nallely@elevardevelopment.com today.
Every business decision carries social, political, and economic considerations. Avizo Consulting helps organizations navigate complexity with intention, cultural awareness, and strategic insight. Carlos Butler Vale partners with leaders who want their values and actions aligned. Learn more at www.avizoconsulting.com or email carlos@avizoconsulting.com.
Two leaders. One shared commitment to growth, cultura, and impact.