There’s something profoundly human about asking why. It’s a question we encounter constantly, whether pondering life’s bigger picture or answering the relentless curiosity of a child. As an aunt to my brilliant 4-year-old niece, Natalie, I’ve had my fair share of explaining “why” something happened—or didn’t. If you know Natalie, you know she doesn’t let anything slide. But beyond the day-to-day navigation of our lives, there’s a deeper “why” that we all seek: the reason for our existence. Why me? Why this? The odds of being born are so infinitesimal that it’s no wonder we spend a lifetime trying to make sense of it all.
Redefining Masculinity in Latino Culture: Los Montaner
Growing up, one way I bonded with my parents was through TV—movies, shows, the whole works. Recently, my mom and I stumbled upon the first episode of Los Montaner. We were instantly hooked and binged the entire first season on Disney Plus (thankfully, season 2 is coming soon!). What captivated me most wasn’t just the family’s love and connection, but the emotional intelligence of Mau and Ricky Montaner.
Let me set the stage: my experiences with Latino men often align with machismo—emotionally stunted, seeing vulnerability as weakness. Yet here were Mau and Ricky, fully embracing their emotions. They cried tears of joy, sadness, frustration—the full spectrum—and celebrated and uplifted the women in their lives. They held hands. They gave affection kisses. I fell in love with their family, or their “tribe,” as they call themselves.
One moment in particular struck a chord with me. Mau shared that he has a “why” tattoo to remind him of his purpose in life. This personal symbol inspired him to start The Why Project, a platform helping others find and live their “why.”
That was my lightbulb 💡 moment.
Navigating My Why: Elevating Authenticity
I started Elevating Authenticity to provide individuals and organizations with tools to find alignment and live authentically. Our tagline, “the journey that defines us,” reflects the daily work of pursuing our authenticity. It is work, especially in a society that often pressures us to conform, silence our voices, or wait our turn.
I know this because I’ve lived out of alignment with my values and purpose before. I’ve always loved advocacy and envisioned a socially just world. But early in my career, my work was more about ego—I believed I could empower people. Life taught me otherwise.
Empowerment doesn’t come from someone else; it comes from within. Yes, environments and systems can disempower, but the strength to say, “I’ve got this,” must ultimately come from the individual. My job isn’t to “empower” anyone—it’s to create the systems, policies, and tools that enable them to step into their power.
This realization shaped my why. I’m dedicated to Elevating Authenticity because I see it as my way of making the world better—by helping others align their actions and values to live authentically.
Alignment: The Why Project & Elevating Authenticity
Watching Mau and Ricky, I realized I hadn’t thought deeply enough about my own “why.” I focus daily on my values and authenticity, but their story brought my purpose to the forefront. And it struck me how aligned The Why Project is with Elevating Authenticity. Both are about navigating our “why” and living in alignment with it.
That’s why I’m so passionate about the work I do—whether it’s consulting with organizations, coaching leaders, or creating tools like my Elevating My Authenticity card deck. These cards guide reflection on identity, values, and authenticity, helping individuals navigate their “why” and live in alignment with it.
As I eagerly await season 2 of Los Montaner, I can’t help but put this out into the universe: I’d love to partner with The Why Project and Mau Montaner. So here it is, Universe and Internet—do your thing. Mau: Let’s make magic happen.
When we find our “why” and align it with our values, we not only transform ourselves—we transform the world around us.
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