Siria Contreras

Access to Capital and Financial Education for Small Businesses: The Lendistry Programs Discover how Lendistry is reaching and supporting small businesses with access to capital and financial education. Learn about the programs and partnerships, including the Orange County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and how they are innovatively empowering entrepreneurs. #SmallBusinessSupport #AccessToCapital #FinancialEducation #LendistryPrograms #EmpoweringEntrepreneurs #SmallBizGrowth #Partnerships #HispanicChamber #BusinessResources #Entrepreneurship

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The visions and opportunities that God is not only bringing to me…but also showing me how to bring those to others. These are life changing moments. When you hear about this one…🥹🤯🙏🏾 As mentioned…at this point, you can’t afford not to work with me. But also…yesterday’s price…you know the rest. 🤣 Let’s go! #sync #levelup #synclicensing #musicbusiness #networking #musicmarketing #custommusic

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I have hosted/produced over 1000 community events. Through Art ala Carte, The MOB Nation, Show the F*ck Up Media, Magic Hour Hawaii. I have helped dozens of event planners, community leaders, creators, and networking groups with their community events. I have learned (over and over again) that if an event is free you will get the most sign ups you have ever received and 75% of those people will not show up. Today's Intentional Netwerking Call was a reminder of this. (No shade- I have signed up for free events and not attended myself). They have to have "skin in the game". This is a truth that I often try to talk myself out of believing. Because I love community and I love being able to create rooms for connections- and I want them to always be accessible to all. But time after time, it has been proven true. ✨ ✨ ✨ Here is what I have learned to do instead ✨ ✨ ✨ 1) CHARGE THE MONIES- EVERY SINGLE TIME. Add a price/value to the event. The people in the room will be those you know are invested in what you are bringing to the table. And for a community like mine, I like to know people are invested because that tells me they will also invest in the other members as well. Which is the network I like to create. Reciprocal, action taking, move making folks. 2) Do not feel bad about the price. Because you are guaranteed to show up brighter, bolder, and more intentional. Plus- please hear me- people that facilitate spaces and build rooms deserve to be compensated- this is HARD AF work. 3) If you have dream people you'd like in the room. (If you know their presence will add value to your event OR if you know someone may need that financial blessing and know they they're going to get so much out of it). ➡ ➡ ➡ Send a personalized message with a free ticket invite- as your VIP guest. This wording is KEY. ✨ VIP GUEST ✨ This still says to them "the value is $______. And you are being gifted this". They honor this opportunity and show up for it. Some of you may have received a message like this from me- surprise it's because I actually think you are so freaking rad and love to have your energy in my rooms.

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So thankful to pay it forward today by moderating The City Tutors panel entitled “Is LinkedIn Overrated/ Do I Have to Love LinkedIn?” I was an early avid user of the platform and immediately was drawn to how it gave the agency to shape your own career story and connect to tangible opportunities. In fact, LinkedIn is responsible for helping me land my last two roles! It can be difficult to navigate how to show up authentically and professionally, but feel free to reach out if you need help with Best Practices to up your LinkedIn game. #linkedin #professionaldevelopment #careercoach

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I happened to be in Playa Vista (around corner of The Honest Company HQ) when this announcement hit my Instagram the other day. Immediately my thoughts went to the countless times Jessica Alba came thru my feed; brought us into her private home, shamelessly make-up free, no special lights or camera, showing her skincare routine as her kids were were being kids in the background. I only knew the company as one who made synthetic-free baby products. Until one day yrs ago she came up on feed sharing the stresses of daily life being a mother, wife, entrepreneur, artist/creator, friend, and how super important it is to find products that actually do the job bec you don’t have time. No drama, no disingenuous marketing, just Jessica in her bathroom talking about pain points as a woman. Since then, I took notice of the company bec she stood for something that resonated with my life as an entrepreneur. Jessica’s departure marks not the end of an era, but the beginning of another chapter in the remarkable journey of a woman who founded a company to solve a problem. Steve Jobs said in his inspiring “think differently” rhetoric, “It’s a very noisy world and we’re not going to get a chance for people to remember much about us. Products and distribution will change. But core values should never change.” I believe those values will continue on at The Honest Co. because of her. Much success to Jessica and the launch of her new Lady Spitfire Production Co.

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Black Men Love: Self-Care, Grooming & Beyond. Celebrating Black Love & Self-Care: A Grooming Routine for Kings We're thrilled that our short film "Black Men Love" – a branded awareness project created for Shea Moisture Men in Los Angeles California with Durable Goods – has won a 2024 Webby Award for Corporate Social Responsibility.   "Black Men Love" celebrates the importance of self-care for Black men. After all, taking care of yourself isn't just about looking good, it's about feeling good too. Self-care isn't just bubble baths and face masks (although those can be great too!). It's about taking intentional steps to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. So, in the spirit of self-love and self-care, we've put together a simple yet effective grooming routine for Black men, Here are some tips to get you started! Here's a basic men's grooming routine for Black men to get you started: 1. Conquer the Cleanse: Wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser designed for your skin type. Black men are prone to razor bumps and dryness, so opt for fragrance-free and oil-controlling formulas. 2. Exfoliate for Brighter Skin: Exfoliate 2-3 times a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent ingrown hairs. Look for products with salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which are effective for Black skin. 3. Moisturize, Don't Ignore: Combat dryness with a daily moisturizer. Shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil are great options for Black skin. 4. Tame that Mane (or Beard): Whether rocking a fade, waves, or a beard, prioritize hair and beard care. Use a beard oil or leave-in conditioner specifically formulated for Black men's hair. 5. Don't Forget the SPF: Sun protection is essential for everyone, regardless of skin tone. Choose a lightweight, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Beyond the Basics: Find a Signature Scent: A cologne or body spray can boost your confidence. Opt for woodsy or musky scents that complement your natural aroma. Take Care of Your Lips: Dry, chapped lips are a no-go. Keep a lip balm handy for on-the-go hydration. Invest in Quality Tools: A good razor, shaving cream, and beard trimmer will make your grooming routine smoother (literally!). Remember, self-care is a journey, not a destination. Experiment, find what works for you, and most importantly, embrace your unique handsomeness kings <3.

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LinkedIn a platform for business, ideas, community & innovative thinking...to me. So were the Grateful Dead. R.I.P. @PhilLesh I got turned on to the Grateful Dead in early ‘90’s at Long Beach show…changed my mind, soul, sense of community & economy. What I witnessed & experienced was a whole new world…music as a driver for bringing ppl together, spreading joy, global messaging, branding & economic innovation - that was & is my experience. I say i went to 50'ish Grateful Dead shows…all I know is they created a platform for many things… 1. Social Media: “The Well” one of the 1st Social Media platforms created. 2. Gig Economy: Parking Lot Economy - sell to the market to make cash whether "kind burritos", chili, crafts, weed, acid, haircuts, clothes, a ride to the next show to selling ginseng. 3. Branding: Shakedown Street was the main parking lot avenue where everyone sold & shopped. Oh yeah...and the Jerry Bear...and Themed Events...NYE free donuts at midnight... 4. Memes: "I need a miracle"...why does that guy have a finger in the air? 5. Free Hugs: free hugs 6. Leave No Trace: Pick up what you brought in. 7. Human Community: From sharing blankets, food, drink to checking in to "making sure you're alright", RockMed 8. Gaming: Twirling. Set List Guessing. Yelling out for songs... 9. Innovate, Create Wonder & Magic: Before Burning Man were Dead Shows 10. Crypto: Before bitcoin - the Dead community created global money & trade exchange without cash. You gotta home, I gotta ticket...

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I’m a proud CA Valley native with deep roots in Visalia, California. 🌳 { Here’s how I would have rebranded this California town! LOVE! I hope you enjoy this reimagined Brand Identity System!} I grew up in Fresno, CA, but my weekends were spent in the city of Visalia, visiting my Grandmother and skipping over to Taylor Hot Dogs with every visit. My father grew up here, attending local schools and growing up on a farm off of Avenue 304 as his father was the Ranch Foreman. So when I saw that this vibrant central valley town recently went through a rebrand, I was taken back by the direction city officials took! 🥴 The original logo is cherished by the community. It has a traditional aesthetic that resonates with long-time residents, emphasizing the city’s history and the sense of community. But even in 2024, Community members agree that a Brand Refresh is needed to reflect what the city is today. The community, if anything, is not opposed to change and innovation. Unfortunately, what they got was a minimalist design, reducing the visual elements to basic shapes and colors. While modern, this approach may seem impersonal and abstract, losing the intricate storytelling that the original offered. Even worse, the responsible party responded with “🎶 Let’s give’em something to talk about…🎵” 😒 And as a Brand Strategist and Designer, that even made me upset! The discrepancy between Visalia’s original and rebranded logo underscores the critical importance of a strategic approach to branding. 💡Effective brand identity is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a visual representation that resonates deeply with the community’s values, history, and identity. ✨Rooting branding efforts in strategy ensures that the brand reflects the essence of the community, fostering pride and connection among its members!!! Happy to share BTS of my rebrand, the strategy behind the designs, and other use case mockups, and MORE! 👉🏾 Perhaps we can influence and change the fate of Visalia’s rebrand! Help me get this seen by City Official in and around the San Joaquin Valley, especially the City of Visalia!! LIKE COMMENT AND RESHARE WITH YOUR NETWORK. Thank you! @cityofvisalia #visalia #visalialogo #cityofvisalia

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Negative energy is more sticky than positive energy. Check out the full interview with Peter Murillo. He is a content creator, businessman, and videographer in the Bay Area. YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ef6BjQQg Spotify: https://lnkd.in/ekAH-V6J Apple Podcast: https://lnkd.in/exQs4yXe Subscribe on YouTube | Follow & Rate on Spotify | Follow & Review on Apple Podcast | • • • • • #podcast #business #entrepreneurship #highvaluediscussions #assetmediaproductions

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In today’s content-driven media landscape, collaboration is more important than ever. During a press event with Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings, I found myself right in the heart of the action—holding multiple microphones, helping capture key soundbites for a variety of outlets. With a short interview window and so many cameras on-site, it's all about working together to deliver accurate, timely information to the public. Journalism and content creation may be evolving, but the core of it—teamwork and storytelling—remains the same. #ContentCreation #Collaboration #MediaStorytelling #PressConference #Journalism #Teamwork Here's the finished segment - https://lnkd.in/eqk674Hu

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On Monday, I discussed the long-term prospects for Tubi. On Tuesday, I praised Issa Rae's influencer marketing venture. "On today", these items converged: Issa partnered with Tubi for their new "Stubios" program—a fully-funded incubator for emerging creators. Stubios mirrors our initiative at BlackOakTV. Our "Choice" feature will empower users to greenlight the Black TV shows and films they want to see, illustrating the potential of fan-driven projects. While Tubi leverages its Black Indie vertical's success, we aim for similar engagement at BlackOakTV. So I respect Stubios model, but I question Issa’s choice to align with Fox Corp., Tubi's parent company. A Brief History Lesson: In the '90s, Fox, then a lesser network, adopted a strategy targeting Black audiences with original programming like Living Single and Martin, which became instant classics. These shows boosted Fox’s ratings, enabling it to secure NFL rights in 1994. Almost immediately after rising to prominence, Fox dropped its Black-centric shows. The revenue and prestige from Black viewership and NFL games helped launch Fox News in 1996, an outlet that has since posed significant challenges for Black communities. Present Day: Tubi has been thriving off indie Black projects. Fueled by popular content and the viral power of platforms like TikTok, Black viewership is propelling Tubi’s growth, again benefiting Fox financially. Don't buy that Tubi is all that important to Fox? Well, during Fox's last earnings call, Tubi was mentioned 24 times, nearly as often as the Fox name itself. So what does this have to do with Issa? Issa is partnering with Fox to bring more diverse (read: Black) voices to Tubi. I commend her for the thought, as I'm sure her intentions are pure. And when you can marry business with your passion for Black people, life is great. I know this because I live it every day with #BlackOakTV. But Issa once said, "I'm rooting for everybody Black." Yet, this move ain't that! This move is helping Fox run an old trick that allows Rupert Murdoch's Fox, which I believe is more responsible for Black plight than any other modern major media company, to further its highly questionable agenda. And they need Tubi to do it! The Fox Network is less relevant than it's been in decades. Fox News is going the way of the dying cable business. Fox Sports is irrelevant. Even TMZ is struggling. Instead of letting this decaying company go by the wayside, Issa is lending her credibility to the asset most linked to Fox's future. And she shouldn't do it. The value generated by Tubi still goes to the Murdochs, and there's no telling what crazy thing they'll use it to invest in next. My guess is it won't be something that empowers Black people. I know the world isn't perfect, and we, including myself, can't always line up our beliefs with our work. However, when it's this obvious, I believe we can and should make better choices. And I hope in the end, Issa does just that.

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How to Cultivate Long-Term Success On a sun-soaked day in San Diego, Superman taught me the secret to success. Read the article here: https://lnkd.in/gzGNVyAv

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Over the past 35 years, I have: Led countless event teams big and small. But I was not a good leader. I was merely a director of activities and people. Even now as a seasoned event professional who has delivered hundreds of events, I still don’t think of myself as a good leader. I know I have so much to learn and grow. But lately I have come to realise that becoming a good leader is an ever-evolving journey. Not a box you can just tick off and move on from. As I reflect on all I have learnt about leadership throughout my time delivering events, these 5 realisations have really stuck: 1. Good leadership starts with respecting yourself and others first and foremost. If you want people to grow, you need to first grow yourself. 2. Surround yourself with talented people and understand that you don’t (and are not expected to) know it all. 3. You must always be flexible; change is inevitable especially with event teams. 4. Share the credit in the good times and take responsibility in the tough times. 5. We were given two ears and one mouth for a reason, listen first speak last. I value the amazing people around me now more than ever and the impact they have on me is something I never really understood or appreciated before. Today I feel so grateful I get to share this journey with them each and every day.

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Recently I had a couple of conversations with different people who were impacted by layoffs in the media/entertainment/tech industries and are now having the same challenge: They both want a career shift (a different industry or a different field) and almost all job descriptions out there ask for at least X years of experience doing that specific thing they’re hiring for and/or Y years of experience in that industry. It’s (way) past time for hiring managers and recruiters to start looking at people’s skills, knowledge and ambitions vs if they have X or Y years of experience. A job description shouldn’t be a checklist. Once I came across this statement while reading a job description and thought it was perfect. Can we do more of this?

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