Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Patricia Vila. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Patricia, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?

Moving to Havana, Cuba to become CNN’s first American TV Producer there was a monumental risk, but it also offered me an unparalleled opportunity. I immediately recognized the potential for growth and embraced the challenge, blending my personal heritage with professional ambition. The experience of covering significant stories in such a dynamic setting was both exhilarating and transformative. The skills I was able to develop are resilience, adaptability, and confidence, these are invaluable and truly shaped my approach to future challenges. Seizing the opportunity to move to Cuba taught me so much about life, freedom, not taking anything for granted and also enriched my personal journey.

My experience of living in Havana was incredibly profound. Moving to a place with such a different political and cultural landscape was both challenging and transformative. It’s amazing how taking that risk led to so many positive outcomes. It deepened my family connections, new friendships, and the chance to explore the island.

The ability to embrace the uncertainties of such a significant change and find growth and creativity in the process speaks to my resilience and adaptability. It’s a powerful reminder to everyone how stepping out of your comfort zones can lead to unexpected and rewarding experiences. Living under a communist regime and moving to the country my parents had to flee was incredibly complex and emotional. Yet, I was able to turn those challenges into opportunities for growth.

Forming deeper connections with my family in Cuba, building new friendships, and exploring the island all reflected my commitment to the decision made. It enriched my life in so many unexpected ways. It truly transformed what could have been a daunting risk into a series of rewarding experiences, advancing both my career and personal journey. My story is a powerful example of how embracing risk can lead to profound and lasting positive changes.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am the President of Patty Vila Media. I have been a dedicated communicator throughout my life. I began my career at CNN after graduating from Barry University and was one of the founders of the CNN Havana Bureau. During my four-year stay in Havana, I covered significant events including hurricanes in the Caribbean, a hostage crisis in Peru, post-9/11 news in Pakistan, and interviews with five world leaders. My coverage of Elian earned me an Edward R. Murrow award. I was one of the youngest journalists awarded a Journalistic Fellowship at the University of Michigan, My career evolved after 13 years into public relations, marketing, and business development.

What I want potential clients, followers and fans to know is first my commitment to excellence. My career is marked by a commitment to excellence and innovation. I don’t shy away from challenges; instead, I embrace them as opportunities for growth and creativity. Cultural insight and sensitivity, my experiences have given me a nuanced understanding of diverse cultures and political environments, enabling me to approach storytelling and projects with empathy and depth. At the heart of my work is a passion for storytelling that resonates, whether through news production or creative projects, I strive to convey compelling narratives that engage and inspire. I value forming genuine connections with people and believe in the power of collaboration and community. My work is as much about the relationships I build as it is about the projects I undertake.

Lastly what I want you to know about me is that I’m deeply proud of my diverse experiences in both media and community service. Serving as the spokesperson for five hospitals in Miami-Dade County during COVID-19 allowed me to play a crucial role in managing communication with the community and staff during an unprecedented time. Founding Patty Vila Media has been a rewarding journey, helping brands reach new heights and achieve their goals. Taking 19 foster children to the Dominican Republic with Blue Mission was a profoundly meaningful experience, and my role as the first Director of Marketing at Chapman Partnership, where I worked extensively with the homeless population, was extremely fulfilling.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team and keeping morale high is crucial for productivity and overall success. Always set clear goals to ensure that everyone understands their roles and the goals of the team. Clear objectives help focus efforts and provide a sense of purpose.

I am a firm believer that one needs to communicate effectively. Regular communication helps team members feel informed and valued. Share updates, listen to feedback, and encourage open dialogue. Ensure that everyone understands their roles and the goals of the team. Clear objectives help focus efforts and provide a sense of purpose.

Recognize and reward staff members: I have always celebrated the achievements of my staff both big and small. Recognition can be a powerful motivator and helps people feel appreciated.

Foster a positive culture of collaboration, and support. Encourage teamwork and create an environment where people feel safe to share ideas and concerns.

Provide Opportunities for Growth: Offer training and development opportunities. Investing in your team’s skills shows that you value their contributions and are committed to their professional growth.

Encourage Work-Life Balance: Respect personal time and encourage a healthy work-life balance. Flexibility can reduce stress and prevent burnout.

Lead by Example: Demonstrate the behavior and work ethic you expect from your team. Being a positive role model can inspire and motivate others.

Solicit and Act on Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from your team and be willing to make changes based on their input. This helps build trust and shows that their opinions matter.

Provide Support and Resources: Ensure your team has the tools and resources they need to do their job effectively. Offering support and removing obstacles can enhance productivity and job satisfaction.

Build Team Cohesion: Organize team-building activities and encourage social interactions. Strong interpersonal relationships can improve collaboration and make the workplace more enjoyable.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Below are a few of my favorite books and videos that have impacted me on my philosophy and entrepreneurial way of thinking.

The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
This book introduces the concept of lean startups and emphasizes the importance of iterative product development, validated learning, and pivoting based on feedback. It’s a foundational text for modern entrepreneurship.

Good to Great Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t by Jim Collins
Collins explores what differentiates great companies from mediocre ones, focusing on leadership, culture, and strategic planning.

How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek
Sinek argues that understanding and communicating your “why” is crucial for inspiring and leading effectively. This book emphasizes the importance of purpose-driven leadership.

Videos:

TED Talk-How Great Leaders Inspire Action by Simon Sinek
In this popular TED Talk, Sinek explains the concept of “Start with Why” and how leaders can inspire action by focusing on their purpose.

TED Talk-The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown
Brown’s talk delves into the importance of vulnerability in leadership and personal growth, emphasizing how it can foster creativity and connection.

Essays and Articles:
What Makes a Leader? by Daniel Goleman (Harvard Business Review)
Goleman’s article on emotional intelligence explores the key qualities that make an effective leader, including self-awareness, empathy, and social skills.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: pattyvilamedia
• Facebook: Patty Vila
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricia-vila-6b067212/
• Yelp: Patty Vila Media
• Other: Threads-PattyVilaMedia

Image Credits

Patty Vila