Today, I’m bringing you my conversation with Dr. Griselda Martinez. Dr. Martinez is a business coach for women entrepreneurs and hosts the podcast “Unexpectedly Successful,” where she shares guests’ success stories.
She shared with me about her childhood in Mexico – recounting her freedom of playing outside with her siblings from sunrise to sunset. Dr. Martinez ended up moving to the US as an exchange student following the death of her mother. She goes into detail about the positive relationship she had with her adoptive family in Louisiana. Indeed, a unique experience.
Lastly, after pursuing her doctoral degree in New Mexico, she became a permanent resident after navigating various visas in the US.
A Childhood in Mexico: Freedom and Family
Dr. Martinez grew up in Parral, a small mining town in northern Mexico, as the fourth of five siblings. Her childhood was filled with adventure, freedom, and unforgettable memories, like learning to drive stick-shift cars with her younger brother on the town’s quiet streets.
“We had a lot of freedom as kids,” she shared. “My brother and I would challenge ourselves to drive up steep streets, even though we could barely reach the pedals.”
Her family later moved to the larger city of Chihuahua, where she spent her teenage years. Life was simple but rich in experiences, with family outings, train rides, and homemade picnics creating lasting memories. However, at 16, a pivotal event changed her life: the loss of her mother. This tragedy led to her father reimagining all of her and her siblings’ future. Which opened the door to an unexpected opportunity—a cultural exchange program in the United States.
From Exchange Student to Academic Excellence
“My dad wanted me to expand my horizons,” Dr. Martinez said. With his encouragement, she became an exchange student, living with a family in Louisiana. Despite arriving with no knowledge of English, her host family embraced her, and she quickly adapted to American culture.
“They made every effort to help me learn and feel at home,” she recalled. From celebrating her first Thanksgiving to receiving a basket of chocolates on Easter, her host family’s kindness made a lasting impact.
After returning to Mexico, Dr. Martinez’s determination to pursue education brought her back to the U.S., where she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Texas at El Paso. Later, during the economic recession in 2008, she faced uncertainty about her future but eventually found a path forward by pursuing a doctoral degree at New Mexico State University.
Building a New Life in the United States
Dr. Martinez’s academic achievements marked the beginning of her professional journey in the U.S., but her immigration status added complexity, which is nothing new in the immigration community. Over nearly two decades, she navigated various visa statuses—from student to work permits—before finally becoming a permanent resident in 2019.
“The process was long and filled with moments of frustration,” she admitted. “But each step taught me something about perseverance.”
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
After years in economic development, Dr. Martinez transitioned into entrepreneurship. She founded her own consulting business, specializing in economic development and business coaching for aspiring women entrepreneurs.
“I realized many women, like me, have a business within them but need guidance to take the leap,” she said. Through her coaching, she helps women professionals transform their dreams into reality, whether as a side hustle or a full-time venture.
Her podcast, *Unexpectedly Successful*, amplifies these efforts. She aims to build a network of inspiration and support by sharing authentic stories of women’s entrepreneurial journeys.
A Legacy of Strength and Adaptation
Dr. Martinez’s journey highlights the complexities of immigration, the power of education, and the importance of community. From a little girl learning to drive in Mexico to a business owner and mentor in New Mexico, her story is a shining example of the American Dream.
“I’ve learned to embrace every opportunity,” she said. “It’s about growth—personally and professionally.”
Watch Now
I truly think you’ll enjoy Dr. Martinez’s heartfelt story.
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