Welcome back to another episode of The Defying All Odds Podcast!Join us for an incredibly educational and motivational conversation with special guest, Professor James "Jim" Holtje. For over three decades, Jim has been a pivotal force in corporate communications and speechwriting, crafting the voices of global leaders, including the CEOs of IBM and Siemens AG, and the Director-General of UNESCO. As an award-winning Adjunct Professor at Columbia University School of International Public Affairs (SIPA). Jim embodies the powerful message he once wrote for an IBM Chairwoman: "Never let anyone define you. Define yourself." This episode is a masterclass in resilience, showing you how communication, global perspective, and persistence can unlock your greatest potential.Jim Holtje’s personal story is a testament to the fact that labels do not equal destiny. He reveals the profound challenge of being declared "learning disabled" in the 5th grade and how his mother's unwavering support became the catalyst for his future success. What followed after instilled a fire in him to have a relentless drive to graduate from the system that judged him, leading him to earn degrees from NYU and Columbia University. Hear Jim discuss how he tackles adversity, including recent health challenges, and why he agrees with the profound philosophy: it's not whether life knocks you down, it's whether you pick yourself up stronger. Learn practical strategies for overcoming educational and professional setbacks and using them as fuel for academic and career advancement.As the founder of Speak Up International LLC, Jim's passion lies in empowering non-native speakers to master the art of influential communication. Discover the intricate process behind writing speeches that shape global policy and corporate strategy. We speak about the importance of international political economy, the role of writing (as a seven-time author), and the cultural insights gained from extensive overseas travel and fluency in four foreign languages (German, Italian, French, Spanish). Whether you are an aspiring executive, a student of international affairs, or someone seeking to refine your communication skills, Jim's expertise offers valuable lessons on building a global citizen mindset and commanding influence.As a Professor, Jim is always finding ways to promote research and educational literacy in the classroom. We touch on the importance of finding a balance with AI such as Chat GPT and how AI will continue to advance in educational settings. Tune in to learn more!🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! Turn on that notification bell so you don't miss another episode! 🔔Professor James (Jim) Holtje Email: jph107@columbia.eduLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimholtje/FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/JamesHoltje?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=lDlONQP41qhmgFM6&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1BCtWVKtxD%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr#Columbia Professor: https://www.sipa.columbia.edu/communities-connections/faculty/james-holtjeNYU Professor: https://www.stern.nyu.edu/faculty/bio/james-holtjeBooks: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001IQZBT0/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=0f82360a-5cb1-4789-83e4-e0d2be5372de&ref_=ap_rdr&ccs_id=3ac47f2e-c3fb-4feb-b52a-8a03a65cd5c1As always, thank you for listening in and be sure to check out The Defying All Odds Podcast On YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, FaceBook, Threads, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music and contact us via email. LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/thedefyingalloddspodcast_______________________________________________________________#education #college #speech #professor #podcast

Welcome back to another edition of The Defying All Odds Podcast!In our next segment of our Educational Series, we had the opportunity to sit down with the Honorable New York City Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse, representing District 46 - covering covering the neighborhoods of Bergen Beach, Canarsie, Flatlands, Georgetown, Gerritsen Beach, Marine Park, Mill Basin, Mill Island, Sheepshead Bay. Councilwoman Narcisse has defied odds in different ways beginning with a career shift from taking care of patients as a registered nurse (RN) to winning Brooklyn's District 46 in City Council. Mercedes conveys how the spirit to always fight for others and what is right began with her childhood back home in Haiti. Born in Saint Marc, Haiti, Mercedes attributes her early teachings to her grandmother, which she then brought with her when she migrated to the United States as a teenager, settling in Brooklyn. She attended public high school in Brooklyn, and is a proud CUNY graduate. Her wish to give back led her down the path of healthcare, where she worked as a registered nurse and was also a small business owner. Here Mercedes explains how nursing and tending to those who fell ill taught her how to be resilient and fight for those who needed a voice to be heard.Elected to the New York City Council in November, 2021, she had defied all odds after winning in her third time running - having lost the previous two elections. Stepping into her first term as a New York City Council Member, Mercedes Narcisse immediately established herself as a formidable and tireless advocate for her Brooklyn community. Her commitment goes beyond rhetoric, translating directly into tangible results: her district office has quickly earned the reputation for having one of the highest constituent service ratings across all of New York City. This remarkable achievement demonstrates her unwavering effectiveness, deep dedication, and sophisticated understanding of the complex needs of her district. As a devoted mother of four and a lifelong, proud resident of Brooklyn’s 46th District, Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse brings a deeply personal perspective to her legislative work. Her effectiveness is powerfully demonstrated through her crucial role as a member of the Council’s Budget and Negotiation Team. In this high-stakes capacity, Mercedes has delivered nothing short of unprecedented fiscal victories for her constituents. Her adept negotiation skills have secured millions of dollars in critical city funding, directly earmarked for the comprehensive upgrade and renovation of essential community infrastructure—from local parks and libraries to vital schools across the district. 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! Turn on that notification bell so you don't miss an episode! 🔔City Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse D-District 46Email: District46@council.nyc.govWebsite: https://council.nyc.gov/district-46/FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/CMMercedesNarcisseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mercedesnarcisseThreads: https://www.threads.com/@mercedesnarcisse?xmt=AQF0MTJOTDv7Txzv4YvrOjOfsTDYrR4fVobQdvpbYFnZMeYX: https://x.com/CMMercedesCD46As always, thank you for listening in and be sure to check out The Defying All Odds Podcast On YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, FaceBook, Threads, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music and contact us via email. LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/thedefyingalloddspodcast_______________________________________________________________#brooklyn #politics #nursing #haiti

Purchase "The Wisdom I Can't Teach" By Paul Coyne Here: https://www.amazon.com/Wisdom-I-Cant-Teach/dp/B0DVFYSTGY?ref_=ast_author_dpWelcome back to another episode of The Defying All Odds Podcast.In this episode we have a very special guest - Paul Coyne DNP, MBA, MS, APRN, AGPCNP-BC - a healthcare leader, clinician, inventor, poet, and inspirational keynote speaker whose journey spans finance, clinical care, analytics, entrepreneurship, and the arts. Paul feels like he's lived many lives in a life that's been filled with tragedy, career changes, and resilienceBeyond the struggles of being born with heart disease (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy), Paul has always found a way to persevere. From not being able to play sports at the age of 10 to a pacemaker implant in high school to intermittently being fully paralyzed from the neck down returning to high school in wheelchair - Paul has always found a way to keep going. At just the young age of 22 and 1 week after graduation from Providence College, Paul suffered a stroke - — a defining moment that reshaped his sense of purpose. While relearning to walk and speak, he began his career as a financial analyst at Goldman Sachs, specializing in derivatives and system optimization. Though successful in finance, he felt called to serve in a more human-centered way.He made a transformational pivot into healthcare, simultaneously enrolling in Columbia University’s BSN/MSN/DNP program and Northeastern University’s MBA in Healthcare Management / MS in Finance program. Despite all of the setbacks healthwise, physically and mentally, Paul went on to obtain 5 more degrees in just 4 years leading to a career shift from finance into healthcare. Paul became an adult-gerontology nurse practitioner with a subspecialty in palliative care. In 2017, he transitioned to Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), where he rose through roles including Chief Nursing Informatics Officer before ultimately being appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive at the age of 36. At the time, the youngest in the United States of a major academic medical center. At HSS, he led 2,000 clinical professionals across multiple states, driving improvements in care quality, patient safety, staff engagement, and collaboration.Beyond his operational and technological impact, Paul is a poet and author whose writing explores resilience, healing, and purpose. His poetic trilogy—The Wisdom I Can’t Teach (2025), Greatness Not Yet Born (2026) and Blank Page and a Pen (2027)— reveals that a focus on these truths, coupled with faith, can turn even the deepest suffering into wisdom, grace, hope, and triumph.His life is proof that expertise can be built across disciplines—and that overcoming is not a one time occurrence, but a daily event. 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! Turn on that notification bell so you don't miss an episode! 🔔Paul CoyneEmail: paulecoyne@gmail.comWebsite: PaulECoyne.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulecoyne/As always, thank you for listening in and be sure to check out The Defying All Odds Podcast On YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, FaceBook, Threads, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music and contact us via email. LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/thedefyingalloddspodcast_______________________________________________________________Timestamps:0:00 Intro1:44 Paul’s History4:26 Paul’s Life Philosophy7:17 Having a Stroke at 2211:07 - The Comeback of a Lifetime12:12 - Pause. Say That Again?13:20 - Faith and Spirituality14:32 - I Graduated. Now What?20:23 - The Wisdom I Can’t Teach22:34 - Why He Became a Poet27:55 - How to Define Yourself31:36 - Paralyzed in High School34:19 - High School Philosopher36:44 - Hidden Disabilities43:17 - The Wisdom of Nine Lives49:20 - Paul’s Advice to the Viewers52:54 - Final Thoughts/Outro#stroke #heart #resilience #motivation

Welcome back to another episode of The Defying All Odds Podcast!In this episode, our cohost Rafael Cedeño reunites with a long lost childhood friend - Justin Rodriguez, a current US Peace Corps member who has just returned from Morocco. Born and raised in Washington Heights, NY, Justin shares an incredible journey that embodies the triumph of resilience and self-belief. He opens up about the uncertainty he felt after college, confessing that before the Peace Corps and his study abroad in Paris, he was genuinely lost. His path to clarity wasn't easy: from working at CVS during the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic and dealing with depression, to making the bold decision to leave his comfortable environment. But instead of settling, he ignited a radical personal transformation: a bold study abroad in Paris, followed by an impactful three-year commitment in the Peace Corps in a rural Moroccan town. Here, Justin wasn't just observing; he was integrating, mastering the local dialect of Darija and dedicating himself to youth development. He shares how the burning desire to empower his students—who dreamed of studying engineering in London—became his fuel on the toughest days, a raw testament to the power of purpose. Now, Justin's relentless application and self-belief have culminated in a fully funded acceptance to pursue a Master’s in Global Politics at the world-renowned London School of Economics (LSE)! If you take away anything from this conversation, anyone that is struggling to find their path can prove that when you silence the self-doubt, ignore the statistics, and fully commit to your own potential, you become the author of your own extraordinary story. 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! 🔔Justin RodriguezEmail: Justinnrodriguez123@gmail.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/justin.n.rodriguez/As always, thank you for listening in and be sure to check out The Defying All Odds Podcast On YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, FaceBook, Threads, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music and contact us via email. LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/thedefyingalloddspodcast#travel #morocco #college #motivation #religion

Welcome back to a very special episode of The Defying All Odds Podcast!In this next component of our educational series, we met with our very first U.S. Congressman on this podcast - U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat, a Democrat representing District 13. We had the chance to sit down with a man whose life is a living testament to the power of perseverance. From his journey as a nine-year-old formerly undocumented immigrant from the Dominican Republic to becoming the first person with that background to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives, his story defies the very notion of "no" and proves that the human spirit, as he says, "is the most powerful thing on earth." This conversation is a masterclass in turning personal adversity into a force for public good.The interview delves deep into the congressman's unwavering commitment to his community, providing specific insights into the battles he fights every day. He passionately discusses his vocal opposition to the "One Big Beautiful Bill," which he argues would disproportionately harm over 600,000 of his constituents by slashing Medicaid and Medicare benefits. His own experience fuels his fierce advocacy for immigrant rights, as he recounts the chilling effect of being undocumented and praises a local coach as a "national treasure" for defending children from ICE agents in a batting cage. Congressman Espaillat's journey from a young immigrant in the 1960s to a prominent voice for affordable housing and tenants' rights in neighborhoods like Harlem is a powerful reminder that with determination, the underdog can not only succeed but also fight for the success of others. His philosophy of "throwing the first punch" and never taking "no" for an answer is not just will power—it's the very foundation of his life's work.A steadfast champion for working- and middle-class New Yorkers, his impactful career in public service is a testament to this philosophy. As a key member of the influential U.S. House Committee on Appropriations, he is directly responsible for advancing and amplifying legislative priorities that improve the lives of families across the nation. During his tenure, he successfully introduced over 50 bills, with the most notable being the successful passage of HR 6852—the Holcombe Rucker Park National Commemorative Site Act—which will permanently enshrine the iconic Harlem basketball court as a federally recognized beacon of community empowerment. Representative Espaillat also secured billions in federal funding to begin the second phase of the Second Avenue Subway, a monumental achievement that will better connect historically transit-barren communities. This dedication to his constituents and the nation is a continuation of his extensive public service, which began with his groundbreaking election as the first Dominican American to a state legislature in 1996 and continued through his work in the New York State Senate, where he was a vocal advocate for tenant protection and economic development.It was an honor to interview our very first U.S. Congressman and we hope you gained some inspiring motivation to make change in your community! Stay tuned for more episodes like this!U.S. Representative Adriano EspaillatWebsite: https://espaillat.house.gov/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/repespaillat/FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/RepEspaillat/X: https://x.com/RepEspaillatBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/repespaillat.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.com/@repespaillat?xmt=AQF0SEDZC7kllAxsrHYpa6WYDimLijpkdqqCtaQ4R2WnNNkYouTube: @RepEspaillat LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/repespaillat?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadw136QWgL59vhOEQFp_lrfLMSz4PBWiuGOejIk9Yp3Sq9gk8v5MAIvDnGj0Q_aem_HWkUNN7l_9zeQSry9Kf5PAAs always, thank you for listening in and be sure to check out The Defying All Odds Podcast On YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and contact us via email. LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/thedefyingalloddspodcast

HAPPY 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY!Welcome back to another edition of The Defying All Odds Podcast with your Hosts: Jesse DeJesus and Rafael Cedeño and our Producer: Luis Cruz.In this special celebratory episode, hosts Jesse and Rafael take a moment to reflect on their incredible journey. From a single camera setup in a Columbia University classroom, they have grown into an international podcast with over 40 episodes and an expanding community of listeners. This episode is a candid and inspiring look at their mission to highlight everyday stories of adversity and prove that everyone has a tale of perseverance.Here our hosts delve into their personal growth, sharing how they have evolved both individually and as a team. Jesse opens up about his journey from a private individual to a confident on-camera personality, embracing the role of a content creator. Rafael reflects on his experience in collaborative work, learning to delegate and building a strong, cohesive team. The Defying All Odds Podcast also highlights the impact of their diverse guest list, which has featured everyone from high-profile figures like former Dominican Republic President Leonel Fernández and U.S. Congressman Adriano Espaillat, to student-athletes and entrepreneurs. They discuss how these interviews not only provided them with invaluable insights but also gave their platform the credibility it needed to grow.Beyond the interviews, Rafael and Jesse share their favorite behind-the-scenes moments—the teamwork, the long recording days, and the laughter. They talk about their memorable experiences recording in unique locations like the Dominican Consulate, Front River Cafe, and the nostalgic halls of Butler Library. Both hosts also express their astonishment at their growing international audience, a testament to the universal power of their message. The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on their ambitious goals for Year Two, including securing new sponsorships and continuing to share impactful stories. Join Rafael, Jesse, and Luis in celebrating their first anniversary and get a glimpse into the drive, dedication, and passion that continues to fuel The Defying All Odds podcast.Stay tuned for what is next in Year 2!🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! 🔔As always, thank you for listening in and be sure to check out The Defying All Odds Podcast On YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, FaceBook, Threads, Spotify LinkedIn, and contact us via email. LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/thedefyingalloddspodcastAlso be sure to check out Jesse, Rafael, and Luis on their platforms:Jesse DeJesus: LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/jessedejesus?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacz8MBwMomqjGxvE_Gdf0u6z9qNukkpX0uKTRhEwcK63zGFg0obQJAHiVwPJw_aem_MPFTPXMiYcAoVu9hqR0uhwLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdejesus7/Email: jjd2191@columbia.eduRafael Cedeño: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rafa_tography/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rafa.c09LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafael-cedeno09/Email: Rafaelcedeno179@gmail.comLuis Cruz (Producer):Email: ljc2186@columbia.eduInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/elluisitocruz/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luis-cruz-462b22307/ #podcast #intro #grief #photography #duet #childhood #adversity #motivation #motivational #motivationalvideo #motivationalspeech #determination #nevergiveup #columbia #nyc #usa #mindset #college #dr #dominicanrepublic #vacation #travel #faith #funny #host #newpodcast #defyingexpectations #americanuniversities #highereducation #highschool #uppereastside

Welcome back to another episode of The Defying All Odds Podcast!In the heart of the South Bronx, Front River Cafe's cofounder - Samuel "Sam" Brooks - isn't your ordinary café owner. Working a 9 - 5 in Wall Street, Sam's vision for a café begin with the idea of creating a community, With the different art pieces, seating arrangements and unique location being next to a waterfront, Front River Café has something for everyone - coffee, pastries, and community bonding.The visionary co-founder of Front River Cafe, a powerful beacon of hope and community in the South Bronx. Samuel's remarkable journey began with his immigration from Honduras to the U.S. in 1974, planting roots in the very heart of the South Bronx. He is a proud product of the local educational system, being among the first graduates of South Bronx High School. His career path is a testament to his multifaceted drive: from dedicating seven to eight years to running impactful tutoring companies that served thousands of children in the South Bronx, to a rigorous 23-year tenure on Wall Street—a "day job" that ironically fueled his profound passion for community upliftment.Samuel and his partner, Idelsa, were moved by a powerful vision to counteract the historical lack of waterfront access and community spaces in the Bronx. Their dream became a tangible reality when they meticulously crafted a business plan, proposing a "community empowerment center" with a coffee shop as its "economic engine," which was then successfully presented to Brookfield, the property developer. Front River Cafe officially opened its doors with the motivational tagline, "cafe, community, and much more," a clear indicator that their mission extended far beyond serving coffee. They meticulously sourced high-quality products, from Italian-roasted coffee beans and Italian espresso machines to locally baked pastries, all while committing to a cost-effective pricing model, like their $3 drip coffee, to ensure accessibility and cultivate repeat patronage within the community.The cafe's design itself is an inspiration, with an intentional seating arrangement that encourages interaction and genuine connection, fostering a sense of belonging often missing in traditional coffee shops. Front River Cafe has become a vibrant hub for community engagement, hosting diverse events ranging from financial literacy workshops for adults and career development sessions for high school students, to intergenerational tech support where younger residents help seniors with their iPhones. They actively celebrate local talent through successful book launches, planned open mic series, creative "morning cafe raves" with DJs, and unique "doggy events" that blend art and pet ownership. The cafe consistently features and rotates art displays by young local artists, truly embodying its commitment to nurturing community growth and talent. Samuel's journey and the cafe's mission powerfully illustrate the incredible transformation of the South Bronx from its past struggles to a dynamic, thriving community, proving that with unwavering dedication and a heart for service, one can indeed defy all odds to create profound, lasting change.🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! 🔔Front River CafeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/frontrivercafe/Threads: https://www.threads.com/@frontrivercafeAs always, thank you for listening in and be sure to check out The Defying All Odds Podcast On YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and contact us via email. LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/thedefyingalloddspodcast#motivational #podcast #inspirational #determination #smallbusiness #bronx #nyc #grit