Hidden Gems: Meet Ana Cardoso of La Grande NC Inc.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Cardoso

Hi Ana , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I currently serve as the Communications Director at Radio La Grande NC, a role I’ve embraced with passion for over 13 years. My journey in the world of communications, public relations, and creative community engagement began when my father founded our family’s radio business in 2010. Since then, I’ve been integral in growing our reach and impact.

Today, Radio La Grande casts a wide net over Eastern NC, broadcasting through eight frequencies, including five AM and three FM stations. Our station has become a vital hub for the Latino community, offering not just music, news, and entertainment but also a reliable source for people to find safe resources, services, work opportunities, and community.

Over the years, La Grande NC has evolved beyond its original scope. We now boast a suite of services that include advertising, a private party venue, a culturally attuned Latino funeral home, and our latest venture, comprehensive marketing services. Our success stems from a steadfast commitment to work collaboratively with our clients, addressing the unique needs of an often-underestimated media platform.

Looking ahead, we’re excited about our latest project—expanding our FM frequency at 93.5FM in Reidsville, soon to broaden its reach to Greensboro. This expansion is just one more step in our mission to serve and grow with our NC Latino community. Stay tuned!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Navigating the journey with a family business is rarely a smooth ride, and ours has been no exception,
facing early challenges that were both financial and personal. The experience my father brought from years of working in radio provided a solid foundation, but running a station proved to be a different beast altogether. Additionally, sharing strong leadership traits and similar personalities meant that clashes were inevitable. This friction, along with a desire to broaden my skills, led me to pursue opportunities outside the family business.

During this time, I ventured into roles that included working as a journalist for Que Pasa News, a production assistant for Univision TV Network, and various managerial positions in social media and communications at East Coast Migrant Head Start and the Center for Energy Education. Each role honed my skills in Spanish-language writing, video editing, report filing, community organizing, and scriptwriting—skills that were essential when I returned to support our family business.

Ultimately, I realized that all professions come with their stress and challenges, but what makes the difference is choosing work that aligns with your passions. This realization led me back to our family business, equipped with new skills and a clearer vision. Today, I’m grateful to work in a field I love alongside my family, who share my passion. Our journey wasn’t easy, but every step was crucial in shaping both our business and my personal development.

As you know, we’re big fans of La Grande NC Inc.. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At La Grande NC, we pride ourselves on being more than just a radio station. We’ve recently expanded our repertoire with the addition of a comprehensive marketing services department, which is swiftly becoming a cornerstone of our operation. This new division specializes in various modern marketing strategies, including social media management, website development, and strategic communication planning.

We are especially adept at Event Planning and Management, Brand Ambassador Marketing, and producing engaging podcasts. Our team is also skilled in navigating the nuances of advertising on platforms like HULU, Roku, and YouTube. With a robust approach to Brand Strategy, Content Creation, Public Relations, Email Marketing, and Influencer Marketing, we offer a full spectrum of services designed to elevate brands.

What sets us apart is our deep understanding of and connection to the Latino community, which allows us to craft uniquely tailored, culturally resonant campaigns. We’re not just marketers; we’re community builders, and that’s what we want our clients to experience—marketing that feels personal and genuine.

We take pride in our innovative approach to blending traditional media with modern marketing tactics, creating a unique space where our clients can thrive. Whether it’s increasing visibility or enhancing engagement, we’re here to help businesses shine. At La Grande NC, we’re more than a service provider; we’re a partner in your brand’s journey.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5-10 years, I envision significant evolution within our industry, particularly in how media and marketing services cater to diverse communities. At La Grande NC, we aim to become the central hub for Latino affairs in North Carolina—a key resource and liaison for anyone looking to engage with the vibrant NC Latino community.

To achieve this, we plan to expand our team and establish strategic locations across the region to enhance the quality and reach of our services. We also intend to increase our presence in community events and festivals throughout Eastern NC, reinforcing our commitment to being an integral part of the Latino community’s fabric.

These shifts not only reflect our growth aspirations but also align with broader industry trends toward more targeted and culturally sensitive marketing approaches. As demographics continue to evolve, so too will the demand for specialized and authentic engagement strategies, positioning La Grande NC at the forefront of this dynamic landscape.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://lagrandenc.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nclagrande/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaGrandeNC
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lagrandenc8694
• Other: https://music.apple.com/us/station/la-grande-nc/ra.1460981070