Desktime Stories | Real Work Stories That Make Work Happier

Diana Maldonado, Latina leader, former Texas State Representative, author of The Unlikely Candidate, and founder of Candidate School, shares powerful lessons on confidence, career growth, public service, perfectionism, money, and what it really takes to become an unlikely leader. Watch this conversation for real advice for young Latinos, first-generation professionals, future leaders, and anyone ready to grow, lead, and create change. Follow Desktime Stories for more real stories about work, growth, leadership, and moving forward. #LatinaLeadership #CareerGrowth #PublicService #YoungLatinos #LeadershipAdvice

What if a receptionist job in Paris changed your life? That’s exactly what happened to Rebeca de la Piedra — a Mexican fragrance expert with 30+ years across France, the U.S., and Mexico. From newlywed in Paris to training under master perfumers, she built a global career in fragrance and spent 22 years with a top company. Now, she’s turning her passion into immersive workshops that blend art, history, and scent. If you’re curious about a hidden industry or chasing a passion-driven career, this episode is for you. 🎙️ Follow Rebeca on Instagram: @rebedelapiedra 📩 Share your story: Desktimestories.com 🎧 Find us on YouTube @desktimestoriespodcast and wherever you get your podcasts #DeskTimeStories #Fragrance #CareerJourney #Podcast #WomenInBusiness #Perfume #Inspiration 00:00 Introduction 02:10 Rebeca's Journey to Paris & Fragrance 05:23 Training the Nose 08:39 Career in Mexico & Sales 16:51 Moving to Los Angeles 20:49 22 Years at One Company 25:52 What Rebeca Is Doing Now 31:04 The Art Behind Scents Project 35:23 Reflections & Closing

From sleeping in her car to becoming a Director of Consumer Lending — Natalie Mendez's story is one of grit, advocacy, and self-belief. In this episode of Desktime Stories, Natalie shares how she taught herself Spanish at 14, rebuilt her life after family hardship, climbed from bank teller to director in 20 years, and learned that the grass is green wherever you go. Whether you're navigating a career change, setting boundaries, or finding the courage to bet on yourself — this one's for you.

This episode is meant to help someone choose a story to share at the podcast and how to tell it. The worksheet is available for free at desktimestories.com 

Have you ever felt capable of more, but scared to ask for it? This story is about fear, growth, and one moment that changed the way I saw myself forever. #DesktimeStories #CareerGrowth #Leadership #Motivation #PersonalGrowth #Confidence #WorkStories #Podcast #Inspiration #Mindset

What are the red flags you would never ignore in an interview? 

Micromanaging boss? In this episode of Desktime Stories, Dave Dirks shares a real workplace story about micromanagement and the career decision that changed his path. He explains what it feels like to work under a micromanaging manager, how it impacts confidence and creativity, and how to recognize leadership red flags before accepting a job. This episode also touches on career decisions, workplace happiness, and how tools like AI can help reduce stress and improve problem-solving at work. If you’ve ever dealt with micromanagement or questioned whether to stay or leave a job, this story will resonate. 👉 Share your story: desktimestories.com