We recently connected with Loren Rosario-Maldonado and have shared our conversation below.
Loren, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s go back in time a bit – can you share a story of a time when you learned an important lesson during your education?
In the midst of pursuing my Master’s degree, life threw me into a storm of challenges that tested my resilience in ways I could never have foreseen. It was during this tumultuous period that I learned the most important lesson of my academic journey: the power of perseverance.
It was my final year of grad school, a time usually marked by the anticipation of graduation and the culmination of years of hard work. However, my path took a harrowing detour when I was diagnosed with a tumor that required immediate surgery. The procedure was invasive, and the recovery was grueling. I vividly remember lying in a hospital bed, surrounded by the sterile white walls and the constant hum of medical equipment. Each breath was a painful reminder of the battle my body was waging, yet my mind was equally engaged in a struggle to stay focused on my academic goals.
Just as I began to heal, the world was struck by the COVID-19 pandemic. The abrupt shift was disorienting, and the isolation accelerated by the quarantine compounded the physical and emotional toll of my surgery. To make matters worse, I contracted COVID-19 twice, each episode dragging me back into a state of vulnerability just as I started to regain my strength.
Then came the most devastating blow: the death of a close family member. Grief added a heavy layer to the already burdensome load I was carrying. The emotional pain was searing, making it hard to concentrate on anything beyond the immediate sorrow.
In the quiet moments, often late at night, I found myself reflecting on why I had embarked on this journey in the first place. It was in these moments of solitude, often at my desk illuminated only by the bright computer screen facing me, that I learned to lean into my pain and use it as a source of strength. Each setback became a testament to my capacity to endure and adapt.
Perseverance wasn’t about ignoring the pain or pretending it didn’t exist; it was about acceptance. It was about acknowledging it and choosing to move forward despite it. This lesson became a beacon, guiding me through the darkest days. I learned to break down my goals into smaller, manageable tasks, celebrating each small victory along the way.
The culmination of my efforts came when I graduated Summa Cum Laude. Although the ceremony was virtual due to the pandemic, I felt a profound sense of triumph as I saw my name on the screen and the words “Summa Cum Laude.” This was a recognition of the journey I endured and the resilience I developed.
Completing my Master’s degree under these circumstances in addition to holding a full time C-Suite role, was more than an academic milestone; it was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. This lesson of perseverance has since become a cornerstone of my approach to life and work. It reminds me that no matter the obstacles, the journey forward is always possible, one determined step at a time.
This journey was not just about earning a degree but about emerging stronger and more determined. It’s a story I carry with me, a constant reminder that perseverance can turn even the most daunting challenges into profound personal triumphs.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m a Culturist. A rebel with a cause on a mission to motivate, activate and elevate cultural intelligence. I’m deeply passionate about all things people and culture. My career path began in Human Resources and was shaped by a profound interest in understanding human behavior, social dynamics, and the intricate kaleidoscope of cultures that shape our world.
This fascination led me to earn advanced degrees in these fields, culminating in my Master’s degree, and current Psy. D in Cross Cultural psychology.
My professional journey began with a service mindset and an innate curiosity about how cultures influence individuals and societies.
This curiosity propelled me into the world of cultural intelligence, where I realized the transformative power of understanding and navigating cultural differences.
As a leadership coach and mentor, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals and organizations thrive in diverse environments.
I authored the award winning book Becoming The Change, The power of Cultural Intelligence where I introduce the The C.H.O.I.C.E. Playbook™️, a comprehensive guide that empowers individuals and teams to enhance their cultural intelligence.
Through this book, I introduce practical strategies to help people understand and relate better at home and work, cultivating deeper connections. This playbook forms the cornerstone of my work, reflecting my belief that cultural intelligence is essential for personal and professional success.
My services include leadership coaching and motivational keynotes, where I deliver my signature speech, “The CQ Code,” designed to inspire and elevate audiences by highlighting the importance of cultural intelligence in real life.
Additionally, I conduct team synergy workshops that facilitate deeper understanding and collaboration within diverse teams, enhancing their performance and cohesion.
One of my current projects involves Leadership Development for a global tech multinational. This initiative looks to expand the reach and impact of my work, leveraging digital platforms to connect with a broader audience.
The problems I solve for my clients revolve around bridging communication and cultural gaps, enhancing communication, and cultivating connections within organizations. By equipping leaders and teams with the tools to navigate cultural differences, I help them create environments where everyone feels connected. This, in turn, drives innovation, productivity, and overall success.
What sets me apart is my holistic approach to leadership development. I combine insights from change management, cultural anthropology, psychology, and leadership coaching to provide a unique perspective that resonates with diverse audiences. My personal experiences, including overcoming significant adversities, also add a layer of authenticity and relatability to my work.
I am most proud of the impact my work has on individuals and organizations. Seeing my clients transform their approach to change and cultural differences while witnessing the positive changes in their interactions and performance is incredibly rewarding. It reaffirms my belief in the power of cultural intelligence as a catalyst for personal and professional growth.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that my work is driven by a deep commitment to cultivating understanding and collaboration in a multicultural world. Whether through my book, coaching, speeches, or workshops, my goal is to empower people to navigate change and cultural complexities with confidence and compassion. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a world where diversity is understood, celebrated, and everyone can thrive.
Have you ever had to pivot?
As a serial entrepreneur, my latest venture, Cultura Global Inc., marks the most significant pivot of my life—a farewell to corporate America. This departure isn’t due to any disdain for the corporate world but rather a bittersweet transition that signifies the culmination of a journey that began with an unexpected pivot: becoming a mother at 19.
Back then, I was in my first year of college, full of dreams and aspirations. When my daughter was born, everything changed. I had to navigate the complexities of being a young mother, a full-time student, and a wife. Each day was a delicate balancing act, a constant test of my grit, determination, and perseverance. There were sleepless nights filled with studying after putting my baby to bed and early mornings preparing for classes while juggling diapers and feedings. It was the most challenging yet rewarding time of my life.
This experience taught me the true essence of resilience. It instilled in me a profound understanding that every obstacle could be turned into an opportunity for growth. Looking back, I see this period as a testament to the power of perseverance. It laid the foundation for my future endeavors, giving me the strength to face whatever challenges came my way.
Years later, when I was firmly entrenched in a successful corporate career, I found myself at another crossroads. Despite my achievements, I felt a growing desire to create something that aligned more closely with my passion for cultural intelligence and human connection. This longing led to the inception of Cultura Global Inc., a venture that embodies my commitment to fostering understanding and collaboration in a multicultural world.
Leaving the corporate world was a daunting decision. It meant stepping away from the security of a stable job and venturing into the unknown. However, the lessons from my early pivot as a young mother gave me the confidence to take this leap of faith. I knew that the journey would be filled with challenges, but I also knew that with perseverance, I could navigate them successfully.
Cultura Global Inc. represents more than just a business; it is the culmination of my life’s experiences and passions. Through this venture, I aim to bridge cultural gaps and empower individuals and organizations to thrive in diverse environments. It is deeply fulfilling to see the impact of our work, helping people understand and appreciate cultural differences, and fostering more inclusive and effective interactions.
This latest pivot is a farewell to the familiar and a bold step into a future driven by purpose and passion. It is a testament to the resilience that has been a constant thread throughout my life. From becoming a young mother to leaving corporate America, each pivot has shaped me into who I am today.
I am most proud of the impact that Cultura Global Inc. has had and continues to have. It is a beacon of my journey, reminding me and others that with determination and perseverance, we can overcome any challenge and create meaningful change.
For anyone facing their own pivot, I hope my story serves as a reminder that every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. Embrace it with courage and resilience, and it will lead you to places you never imagined possible.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Getting started in social media was a journey that pushed me out of my comfort zone and required me to confront some deep-seated fears and a naturally private nature. As someone who values privacy and often finds solace in introspection, the idea of sharing my life and thoughts publicly was initially daunting. However, the importance of cultural intelligence and the impact it could have drove me to embrace this new medium.
The turning point came when I realized that my work, particularly through Cultura Global Inc., needed a broader platform to reach and engage with a diverse audience. Social media became the obvious choice. The fear of vulnerability and the apprehension about putting myself out there were real, but so was the potential to make a significant difference by sharing insights on cultural intelligence, leadership, and personal growth.
My first steps into social media were tentative. I remember sitting at my desk, staring at the screen, debating whether or not to hit the “post” button. The content I was about to share was deeply personal and reflected my journey, challenges, and triumphs. It was a moment of vulnerability, but it was also a crucial step in bridging the gap between my private self and the public persona needed to lead Cultura Global Inc.
Using my fear as a driving force, I started to frame my social media presence around authenticity and value. Instead of seeing my private nature as a barrier, I leveraged it to create content that was genuine and relatable. I shared stories of my experiences, the challenges of balancing motherhood, education, and entrepreneurship, and the lessons learned along the way. These posts resonated with many who found themselves in similar situations, seeking inspiration and guidance.
Engaging with social media also meant confronting the fear of judgment. The internet can be an unforgiving place, and the thought of negative feedback was intimidating. However, I decided to focus on the positive impact my messages could have rather than the potential criticism. Every like, comment, and share was a testament to the value of my content and the difference it was making.
One of the most significant shifts came when I started using social media to connect with like-minded individuals and professionals in my field. These interactions opened up new opportunities for collaboration and growth, further reinforcing the importance of being present and active on these platforms.
Today, my social media presence is an integral part of my work with Cultura Global Inc. It allows me to reach a global audience, share insights on cultural intelligence, and engage with a community passionate about creating a more inclusive world. Overcoming my fear and embracing this medium has been transformative, both personally and professionally.
For anyone hesitant about diving into social media due to privacy concerns or fear of vulnerability, I encourage you to see it as an opportunity for growth. By sharing your authentic self and your journey, you can make meaningful connections and have a profound impact on others. It’s about turning fear into a catalyst for engagement and using your unique perspective to inspire and lead.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cultural.global
- Linkedin: Follow me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/comm/mynetwork/discovery-see-all?usecase=PEOPLE_FOLLOWS&followMember=lorenrosariomaldonado
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@lorenrosario-maldonado?si=YZfebnqyV0TWOu5F
Image Credits
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