Karina Elizondo

Karina Elizondo is a dynamic leader and visionary entrepreneur, known for her multifaceted contributions to security, education, and women’s empowerment. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Texas Elite Security Services, LLC, she has demonstrated exceptional skill in addressing the pressing need for security professionals in both public and private sectors. Karina’s passion for community and female empowerment led her to establish She for She, Women of the World-WOW! an organization dedicated to supporting and uniting women, fostering a culture of mutual support and empowerment. Her commitment to education and community service is further evidenced by her role as a Trustee of Laredo College, where she actively participates in the Finance and Audit Committee and the Student Success Committee, advocating for students and policy enhancements. In addition, she formally participated in the Policy Committee. With over 20 years of government service and an educational background in Public Administration and Political Science, Karina is a respected figure, recognized for her leadership, community service, and dedication to making a positive impact in society.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

I usually start my day with some exercise to get the blood flowing, followed by reviewing my schedule and prioritizing tasks for the day. I balance my time between Texas Elite Security Services, Laredo College, and She for She, Women of the World-WOW!, focusing on strategic planning, team meetings, and community engagement. Productivity comes from strict time management, delegating effectively, and staying proactive in addressing challenges.

How do you bring ideas to life?

Ideas come to life through collaboration, persistence, and a willingness to take calculated risks. I often start with brainstorming sessions involving my team, where diverse perspectives can shine. Then, it’s about creating a step-by-step action plan, securing the necessary resources, and adjusting the course as needed. Seeing an idea from conception to realization is all about staying committed and adaptable.

What’s one trend that excites you?

The increasing recognition of the importance of mental health in the workplace excites me. Creating environments where employees feel supported in every aspect of their well-being is crucial for sustainable growth and success. This trend aligns with my belief in the holistic development of individuals in their professional and personal lives.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Setting daily goals is a habit that significantly boosts my productivity. Each morning, I outline what I need to achieve by the end of the day. This practice helps me stay focused and gives me a sense of accomplishment as I check off items on my list, driving me to maintain momentum throughout the day.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Embrace every opportunity to learn, even from failures. Life’s challenges are not setbacks but stepping stones to greater understanding and resilience. Stay true to your values, and don’t be afraid to lead with compassion and empathy.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?

I believe that vulnerability is a strength, especially in leadership. Many see it as a weakness, but being open about your fears and uncertainties can foster trust and stronger relationships within your team, leading to a more cohesive and supportive work environment.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Reflect on your day. Taking time to contemplate what went well and what didn’t can be incredibly enlightening. It promotes continuous learning and self-improvement, which I find invaluable for personal and professional development.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

Disconnecting from the source of stress helps clear my mind and regain focus. It’s about finding peace in the chaos to recenter my thoughts and approach challenges with a refreshed perspective.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

Connecting with others, not just for the sake of business but to share knowledge and support each other, has opened many doors and provided invaluable insights into my growth and advancement.

What is one failure in your career,  how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

I believed I had to do it all on my own. It led to burnout and mistakes. I learned the importance of delegation, trusting my team, and the strength that comes from collective effort. It taught me to be a better leader by acknowledging my limits and the value of teamwork.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

A way to connect retired professionals with young entrepreneurs for mentorship. There’s so much untapped wisdom and experience that could be shared, bridging generations of knowledge and fostering innovation and growth.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Asana for project management. It helps me and my team stay organized with our projects, deadlines, and responsibilities. It’s great for keeping everyone aligned and on track with our objectives.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

“Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg has been incredibly influential. It’s a powerful call to action for women in leadership and a reminder of the importance of striving for our ambitions, overcoming obstacles, and breaking barriers.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

“The Crown” – it’s fascinating to see the portrayal of leadership, with all its complexities and challenges, set against the backdrop of historical events. It’s a reminder of the weight of responsibility leaders carry and the personal sacrifices they often make.