Empower ED: A PIQE Podcast

In this special episode of Empower ED: A PIQE Podcast, host Iliana Gallego sits down with PIQE's new CEO and President, Reyna Hernandez, for an inspiring conversation about the experiences that shaped her life, her passion for educational equity, and her vision for PIQE's future. Reyna shares her personal journey, reflecting on her childhood, the unwavering support and advocacy of her parents, and the moments that inspired her lifelong commitment to empowering families and expanding educational opportunities. She also discusses what drew her to PIQE, the challenges facing families and educators today, and how communities can partner with PIQE to create brighter futures for every student. Join us as we welcome Reyna Hernandez and learn how her story, values, and vision will help guide PIQE into its next chapter.

In this episode of Empower ED: A PIQE Podcast, host Iliana Gallego speaks with Dr. Kelly Greco, licensed clinical psychologist and Professor of Clinical Education at the USC Rossier School of Education, about the growing impact of academic stress on students. Together, they discuss the pressures students face today, warning signs families should watch for, healthy coping strategies, and practical ways parents and caregivers can support their children's mental health and academic success.

Should students spend summer relaxing or preparing for the future? In this episode, college counselor Maria Jose Lamadrid, founder of Admitology, shares how high school and college students can use summer break to grow personally, strengthen college applications, and still avoid burnout. A practical conversation for parents and students navigating academics, extracurriculars, and admissions. Scholarship Resources: https://www.fastweb.com/ https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/scholarship-search https://www.scholarships.com/ https://bold.org/scholarships/

In today’s episode, we highlight PIQE’s inspiring Parent Ambassadors—parents and caregivers who completed a PIQE workshop and stepped up as leaders to uplift their communities. Meet Julia Sosa, Myra Vera-Rizo, and Francisco Sanchez, three dedicated advocates using their voices and experiences to help families engage in their children’s education, build stronger partnerships with schools, and create meaningful change so all children can thrive.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, this episode highlights the leadership and impact of three remarkable women who are helping shape stronger communities and expand opportunities for students and families. Rachel Hernandez, Mayor of Riverbank, California; Xilonin Cruz-Gonzalez, Deputy Director of Californians Together; and Gabriella Barbosa, Senior Portfolio Manager at Ballmer Group join host Ileana López, Vice President of External Relations at PIQE, for a conversation about how women across government, advocacy, and philanthropy are opening doors and creating lasting change.

In this conversation, I’m joined by Norma Fernandez of Everyone On and Dr. Ryan Alcantara of PIQE to highlight their impactful partnership. Everyone On works to close the digital divide through affordable internet and digital skills, while PIQE empowers parents with knowledge and skills. Together, they’re helping families and students thrive in today’s digital world.

Families are clear: bilingual education matters. This episode examines public demand for bilingual and dual language education and what the findings mean for educators, policymakers, and communities serving multilingual families. Tune in to hear insights from the authors of the What Families Want report.

Who’s making the decisions that affect your child’s school? Join us as we sit down with school board members to understand their roles, responsibilities, and the impact they have on our schools—and why every family should pay attention.

In this episode, Ángel Rentería from the Student Debt Crisis Center shares practical strategies for managing student debt before it spirals into a financial crisis. Drawing from his own experience as a borrower and his work in advocacy, Ángel explores how equitable policies and informed choices can protect students and families from the long-term impacts of student loans.

In this episode, we’re joined by Israel Flores Beltran, Strategic Outreach Coordinator at the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC). A proud CSU Sacramento graduate and former undocumented student, Israel brings a powerful personal perspective to his work helping students and families navigate the path to higher education. We talk about the FAFSA, the California Dream Act, and other key forms of financial aid that can open doors for students across the state. This conversation is packed with practical insights to help make college more affordable and accessible for every family.   Every parent wants the best for their student, but financial aid can feel confusing. That’s why PIQE and California Student Aid Commission are hosting free webinars to help you complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Join us November 6 (Spanish Only) or November 13 (English Only) for live guidance and Q and A. Register now: go.piqe.org/4mg4qje

Welcome to Empower ED: A PIQE Podcast — where we explore the issues that matter most to families, schools, and communities. In our very first episode, we’re joined by Dr. Bilma Bermudez, proud principal of Topaz Elementary School in Fullerton, CA. With over 21 years of experience in education, Dr. Bermudez shares her insights on how schools and families can work together to support every child's potential.