In one word Jose is incredible!
He mentored me on how to facilitate and lead conversations with a group of diverse individuals on Clubhouse, a social media platform where participants talk in real time using their voice. I ended up doing an online training on communication that Jose created with his brother German. That training opened so many doors for me. Being able to communicate to the right audience with the right message is key to getting whatever you want out of life.
Here’s Jose in his own words:
Jose Ucar, as an International Communication and Influence Expert, is dedicated to helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of cross-cultural interactions. His diverse experiences and proficiency in both English and Spanish equip him with a well-rounded perspective to effectively bridge cultural gaps and facilitate meaningful connections.
Q: Where were you born and how has your hometown shaped you?
I was born in Caracas, Venezuela, a city known for its lively culture and bustling streets. However, my upbringing was profoundly shaped by my hometown of Cumana, a coastal city that provided me with a profound connection to the sea. The tranquil waves and salt-kissed air cultivated a sense of curiosity about the world beyond my shores. This early exposure to the vastness of the ocean ignited my dream of international exploration and connection. The horizon became a symbol of endless possibilities, pushing me to embrace diversity and seek cross-cultural experiences in my journey.
Q: What are some of the best places you lived and why?
Each place I’ve lived has left an indelible mark on my perspective. Sweden, emphasising innovation and social welfare, showed me the power of a well-functioning society. The United States introduced me to the dynamism of individualism and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the pursuit of dreams. Spain’s Mediterranean lifestyle unveiled the beauty of savouring life’s moments, while the UK’s multicultural fabric taught me the richness of diversity. These experiences collectively expanded my horizons, honed my adaptability, and fueled my passion for fostering international connections.
Q: Which films, music, books or people have influenced you?
My cinematic and literary influences reflect my appreciation for stories that resonate on a human level. “Dirty Dancing” captures the transformative power of dance and connection, while “Rocky” embodies resilience and the triumph of the human spirit. “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie and “Talk Like TED” by Carmine Gallo provided me with invaluable communication insights. They taught me amongst other things the art of understanding people’s motivations, building rapport, and delivering impactful messages—a skill set crucial for effective cross-cultural communication.
Q: Who are some of the professionals you look up to in your field?
In my field, I hold deep admiration for professionals who excel in communication and influence. Sue Knight’s expertise in NLP and coaching, Simon Ong’s strategic insights, Maria Franzoni’s dedication to the speaking industry, and Simon Sinek’s “Start with Why” philosophy all resonate with me. Their work inspires me to blend practical strategies with authenticity, driving positive change through effective communication. Learning from their journeys, I aim to empower individuals and organizations to embrace cultural diversity and harness it as a competitive advantage.
Q: What’s been your most recent discovery? Food, activity, clothing, brand, life hack, etc…
My recent discovery, salsa caleña, has enriched my life with rhythmic joy. Learning this style of dance connects me not only to the vibrant Latin culture but also to the universal language of movement. As for food, bandeja paisa—a Colombian dish bursting with flavours—has introduced me to a delightful culinary tradition. These discoveries remind me that cultural exploration goes beyond language; it encompasses dance, food, and shared experiences. This holistic understanding underpins my approach to fostering international relationships—embracing all dimensions of culture to create meaningful connections and inspire positive change.
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Thank you Jose! You’re on fire!
