In this episode Amalia’s guest is Roberto Yglesias, during the week he is a successful Product Manager for one of the top Software companies in the world (yes, that Software Company), and on the weekends, an adrenaline seeking National Rally Champion . Roberto’s passion for cars as a child, eventually led him to discover rally car racing (rallying). That’s just like normal track racing, right? Wrong! Rallying takes place on gravel and dirt roads, surrounded by trees and unpredictable terrain. Picture 80 – 90 vehicles racing each other at top speeds through windy roads in the forest and you still don’t get the full picture. 

Luckily Roberto gives Amalia a Rally 101 of sorts, explaining the ins and outs of it all including how a young boy growing up in Costa Rica would eventually travel to the U.S., becoming the latest Rally Champion of Latino decent to hold the title. But this conversation isn’t all about finding a higher gear. They also discuss how finding something as unpredictable and uncontrollable as racing has done wonders for his mental health. In Roberto’s words “I’m an overthinker always strategizing so I have a hard time being present. So, when I’m driving, it forces me to be present. I found this to be very good for my mental health.” 

It's that “being present” that has benefitted him in more ways than one, from strategizing for projects, analyzing opportunities, to impacting his overall outlook on life. So buckle up and get ready for Amalia and Roberto to take you on a ride; learning to disconnect, embracing the unpredictable, and feeling the adrenaline to enjoy life to its fullest. 

Enjoy! Keep up with Roberto @PuraVidaRally on Instagram