Celebrating the Legacy of César Chávez: Remembering my Dad’s Story Further

Growing up, my Dad Rafael Larios had always been fascinated by the stories of César Chávez. He admired his courage and unwavering commitment to justice. When he was 14 years old, Dad had the opportunity to hear Chávez speak in California and witness firsthand the power of his message. Deeply inspired, Dad decided that he …

Holding on to 90 Years of Wisdom – Honoring Bud Bradford

Bud Bradford: Honoring him after 90 Years.

Photo (from Left to Right): Brad Braford; Robert Larios (me); Bud Bradford.

Taking Ownership of Your Journey In Life: A Personal Reflection

Growing up in Pauma Valley, California, I had the privilege of being mentored by a good friend Bud Bradford. He spoke highly of his time at Stanford and the overall college experience he lived and how his actions enabled him to achieve great success in building his business later in life. His words were an …

Christmas Memories and Gratitude

Growing up in Pauma Valley, the Christmas season was always a special time of year. From the smell of the real pine tree and decorations to the presents that appeared under it, I was struck by the energy and spirit of this magical season. Looking back on it now, I am so grateful to my …

Remembering Phil Orland: A Life Dedicated To Service

Knowing Phil Orland was one of those experiences in life where you meet someone who has a positive impact on your future. He would always be cheerful and full with words from wisdom, leading up until his passing this year at age 75! It’s because he gave honest feedback when I felt discouraged that helped …

Stop Impressing Others and Start Impressing Yourself

You could be forgiven for thinking that integrity is something you only need to worry about when other people are around. But the truth is, your integrity is just as important when you’re alone. After all, who are you really trying to impress with your actions? Other people, or yourself? If you’re only trying to …

Thanksgiving Is A Time To Give Thanks For All The People Who Have Helped Us Grow

Happy Thanksgiving Day! It’s a special day like today that I hope for all people that they have a wonderful day full of love, laughter, and good food. This is certainly a time to be thankful for all that we have in our lives. But it’s also a time to celebrate who we are and …

Stay Motivated When Others Try To Bring You Down

In 1989, I was elated when I received the American Legion Award at my 8th grade graduation at Pauma School. It was a great honor to be recognized for my academic achievements, especially after spending the year before recovering from scoliosis surgery, and despite that it would be a decade before I would be sworn …

From a Mexican Immigrant to an American CEO

I’m an immigrant person born in Pihuamo, México then raised on an avocado and citrus farming community in San Diego County. My parents risked everything to give me a better life. As a one-year-old, they carried me in their arms across the treacherous Mexican border into America, where new challenges waited for me the next …

Give It All That You Have, And You Will Be Rewarded

As an immigrant child, I remember seeing my parents working long hours and striving for the American dream. They sacrificed so much to give me and my siblings opportunities that we never would have had in México. They would say, “In this country, give it all that you have, and you will be rewarded.” Later …