Neli Vazquez Rowland’s story is one of deep roots, family sacrifice, and a relentless commitment to improving lives. Born and raised in Chicago's Little Village, Neli grew up in a community where family meant everything. Her parents’ journey from Mexico to the United States, marked by separation and hard work, laid the foundation for the values that would guide her throughout her life.

"My parents made a huge sacrifice," Neli recalls, describing how her father came to the U.S. alone, working as a bracero before eventually reuniting with his wife and starting a family. Their determination to build a better life for their children was not just about providing, but about instilling values of hard work, faith, and community. These were the cornerstones of Neli’s upbringing, and they remain at the heart of her life’s work.

Neli's journey into finance was unexpected, a path she describes as one that found her rather than the other way around. She credits her husband with pushing her to pursue this field, despite her initial reluctance. "I didn't have a golden Rolodex," she admits, sharing how she began her career by cold calling from the Yellow Pages. But Neli's drive and curiosity led her to carve out a niche in Latin American investments, turning her into a subject matter expert in a field where she was a pioneer.

Yet, her success in finance was just the beginning. Neli and her husband saw a need in their community that went beyond financial gain. Their shared commitment to giving back led them to invest in real estate, but with a twist. Instead of simply building a portfolio, they began providing housing to those in need, laying the groundwork for what would become A Safe Haven, a nonprofit that has since helped over 140,000 people, including 30,000 veterans.

Neli speaks passionately about the importance of creating not just a home, but a pathway to self-sufficiency for those who have fallen on hard times. "The first thing people need is a roof over their head when they’re in crisis," she explains. But it doesn’t stop there. Neli and her team work to provide access to job training, employment, and permanent housing, offering a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of homelessness.

One of the most striking aspects of Neli’s work is her ability to see the big picture while remaining deeply connected to individual stories. She recalls the children who have come through A Safe Haven, many of whom are now thriving adults, unaware of the struggles their parents once faced. "It’s been my biggest reward in life," Neli reflects, knowing that her work has not only transformed lives but also broken cycles of poverty and despair.

Neli’s work is grounded in her faith, something she says has always guided her decisions. She believes in the power of community, of paying it forward, and of doing what is right, even when it’s difficult. Her approach to life and business is deeply personal, driven by a desire to honor the sacrifices her parents made and to create a better world for her children and future generations.

As Neli continues to expand her impact through her consulting business, Goals (GOLZ), she remains committed to helping others achieve their dreams. Whether it’s through real estate development, supporting Latino artists, or advocating for small businesses, Neli’s focus is always on creating opportunities for others.

In a world that often feels disconnected, Neli Vazquez Rowland’s story is a reminder of the power of community, the importance of family, and the impact one person can have when they lead with their heart. Her life’s work is not just about building homes or businesses; it’s about building a legacy of compassion, resilience, and hope.

In the latest episode of the TFOCB Podcast, we delve into the life and career of Alex Filin, a seasoned Mortgage Lender with Vybe Mortgage, whose journey is nothing short of inspirational. Alex's narrative is a compelling blend of leadership, mentorship, and personal growth that resonates with anyone striving to make a significant impact in their professional and personal life.

His story is a testament to the power of transformation through persistent self-improvement and learning. "I've always mentored somebody," Alex shares, emphasizing the intrinsic desire to give back that has guided his path from the sports fields of his youth to the boardrooms of today.

His professional ethos is deeply intertwined with his personal experiences. A former athlete, Alex brings a unique perspective to his role not just as a lender but as a coach in the mortgage sector. He draws parallels between the discipline required in sports and his current vocation. This philosophy underscores his approach to mortgage lending—meticulous, committed, and always aiming for improvement.

The episode beautifully captures Alex’s dual roles as both a practitioner and a mentor. He discusses the nuanced balance required to nurture and challenge his mentees, reflecting his deep understanding of individual needs. "Know your personnel," he advises, suggesting that effective mentorship is rooted in personalization and empathy.

Alex's commitment to leadership extends beyond professional advice, delving into the introspective challenges of self-management. He stresses the importance of self-reflection, a theme that recurs throughout his narrative. "Look in the mirror," he asserts, illustrating his method of self-accountability that has kept him grounded and focused.

Furthermore, Alex’s discourse is peppered with insights into the emotional landscape of leadership. He discusses the delicate art of balancing ambition with personal life, particularly as a family man. The anecdotes he shares about his upbringing and the stark contrast to his current life in America highlight a resilience that is both humbling and inspiring. His tales are a reminder of the diverse paths to success and the common challenges we face in striving for excellence.

One of the most poignant moments comes when Alex discusses the transformative impact of mentorship on both the mentor and the mentee. "I learn so much from them as they're able to learn from me," he explains. This mutual exchange of knowledge and experience is what he believes to be the cornerstone of effective coaching.

In addition to professional growth, Alex does not shy away from discussing the personal aspects of his life that influence his professional demeanor. His honest recount of the challenges he faces and overcomes, especially in raising his daughter in a world vastly different from his own childhood experiences, adds a layer of relatability that enriches his narrative.

This episode does more than just chart the career of a mortgage lender; it offers a blueprint for personal development and leadership that transcends industry boundaries. For anyone looking to inspire or be inspired, to lead or be led, Alex’s journey through mentorship, self-reflection, and disciplined leadership provides a valuable roadmap. His story is a powerful reminder that our greatest challenges can forge our most profound skills, transforming not just our careers but our characters.

In the latest episode of The Face of Community & Business Podcast, we delve into the journey of Ward Powell, a seasoned Wealth Advisor with a passion for financial empowerment and a penchant for life's deeper philosophies. This episode offers a treasure trove of wisdom and actionable advice, perfect for anyone eager to explore wealth strategy and personal development through the lens of an experienced professional.

Ward's career pivot from education to financial services is not just a change in profession but a testament to his commitment to impacting lives. His mission is simple yet profound: find money that people are unknowingly and unnecessarily losing and help them save it.

His approach to wealth management, however, is what truly sets him apart. Ward starts by listening—an essential, yet often overlooked skill in financial advising. He seeks first to understand his clients’ desires and goals before crafting a strategy that aligns with their aspirations.

One of Ward's most compelling insights is on the concept of money placement. He challenges the traditional safety net of savings accounts, especially when they swell into the hundreds of thousands. "That's not a good place to park your money," he asserts, highlighting the potential pitfalls of sticking with the conventional wisdom during unpredictable economic times. His perspective on financial safety is shaped by the harsh lessons of the 2008 financial crisis, enhancing his advisory with layers of caution and foresight.

Beyond financial advice, Ward shares stories of personal resilience and discipline. Raised in a humble setting, his drive to help others was kindled early on. His tale of being a young boy eager to help elderly neighbors across the street paints a vivid picture of his innate kindness and sense of duty—traits that have evidently guided his professional and personal life.

Ward's journey is also one of profound self-discovery and challenge. He discusses engaging in intense personal trials, such as a 40-day fast and rigorous meditation retreats, to test and expand his mental and spiritual boundaries. These experiences, he explains, have reinforced his belief in the human capacity to overcome obstacles and achieve great things. "There are no walls that you can't go through if you want to bad enough," Ward shares, delivering a powerful reminder of the resilience and potential within each of us.

For those inspired by Ward's narrative and seeking to make significant life changes, he suggests starting small—a lesson he learned transitioning to veganism over two decades ago. Incremental changes, according to Ward, are the foundation of lasting transformation. This approach can easily be applied to financial habits, where small, consistent adjustments can lead to substantial long-term benefits.

Ward's story culminates in a vision for the future centered around continued learning and helping others. His plans to focus on specific sectors like dental and executive financial advisement show his commitment to refining his expertise and maximizing impact.

This episode does more than just outline strategies for financial wellness; it serves as a beacon of motivation for anyone looking to enrich their lives and the lives of those around them. Ward's combination of financial acumen and life wisdom provides listeners with the tools to not only manage their wealth but also to lead a more thoughtful and deliberate life. His closing thoughts remind us that, regardless of our current challenges, growth and improvement are always within reach.