We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicole Cueto and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicole, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I believe risk is often just courage in disguise. One of the best lessons I’ve learned is that “if you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.” That mindset has shaped so many of my life’s biggest decisions.

When I moved from Miami to New York City without a job lined up, I wasn’t just betting on opportunity, I was betting on myself. It was a leap that forced me to grow quickly, build resilience, and trust my instincts. That decision ultimately opened the door to an exciting career I couldn’t have mapped out any other way.

In travel, I’ve said yes to spontaneous adventures, solo trips, and destinations off the beaten path. It’s in those unknowns where I’ve met incredible people, discovered new passions, and found confidence I didn’t know I had. I always say: the world expands for you when you’re brave enough to explore it.

Dating is no different. It takes risk to be vulnerable, to make the first move, or to walk away when something doesn’t feel right. But asking for what you want (or being honest about what you don’t) leads to deeper connections and more meaningful experiences.

In every chapter, the biggest wins have come when I’ve taken the leap, when I’ve asked the question, even if the answer might have been no.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career has been anything but linear and I think that’s what sets me apart. I didn’t come from a world of connections or privilege, but I did have grit, curiosity, and the ability to build relationships. I moved from Miami to DC (for a job), and then to New York without a job, driven by the belief that if I could just get in the room, I could make something happen. And I did.

Over the years, I’ve carved out a career at the intersection of storytelling, strategy, and human connection — from leading corporate communications for major tech and finance brands, to advising startups, to creating content that inspires people to explore the world around them. What I’m most proud of is my ability to adapt and connect, to translate complex ideas into relatable stories, and to open doors for others in the process.

It wasn’t easy. There were times I felt overlooked, underestimated, or unsure of the next step. But I learned that persistence matters more than perfection. I learned to ask for what I want, to advocate for myself and others, and to trust my instincts, even when the path didn’t make sense to anyone else.

Today, my story is about building bridges, between people and ideas, brands and audiences, places and possibilities. Whether I’m consulting a company, speaking on a panel, or sharing a travel experience online, my goal is always the same: to spark connection, curiosity, and courage.

What I want the world to know is that your story doesn’t have to follow a script. You can start over, take risks, and still land somewhere meaningful. I did, and I’m just getting started.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting NYC for a week, I’d treat it like a love letter to New York, a city that never runs out of magic, especially when seen through the eyes of someone you adore.

Day 1: West Village Welcome
We’d start with a slow morning coffee in my neighborhood, the West Village, then take a neighborhood stroll through tree-lined streets, charming brownstones, and hidden gardens. Brunch at the Standard Highline, followed by a walk on the Highline, a stop at Three Lives Bookstore, and golden hour cocktails at Bar Pisellino. Dinner at Via Carota if we can score a table!

Day 2: Museum Day + Midtown Moments
We’d go uptown for the Met, then walk through Central Park, maybe rowing boats at The Loeb Boathouse if the weather is nice. Grab a fancy cocktail at The Polo Bar (if my contact comes through) or one on the Peninsula rooftop for some epic views. Late dinner at Zou Zou’s or Don Angie.

Day 3: Downtown Culture & Cool
Explore SoHo and Nolita with coffee at Saturdays before browsing the boutiques. Lunch at Jack’s Wife Freda (for some epic sidewalk people watching), then head to The Whitney or catch a gallery show. Sunset drinks at The Manner Hotel with skyline views, followed by dinner at Mamo or One White Street.

Day 4: Brooklyn Adventure
Take the ferry to explore DUMBO, grab a bite at the Time Out Market, then hop on a Citi Bike to the Brooklyn Museum or Prospect Park. Chill evening with pizza and wine at Roberta’s in Bushwick or dancing at House of Yes if we’re feeling wild.

Day 5: Global Bites + Neighborhood Vibes
We’d hit Queens for authentic eats — maybe Asian food in Flushing or Colombian food in Jackson Heights. Back in Manhattan, a jazz session at Django in Tribeca or Smalls in the West Village.

Day 6: Lazy Luxury
Spa day at AIRE Ancient Baths or QC on Governor’s Island, followed by sunset drinks at Grand Banks and then a dressy dinner at Le Coucou or Avra.

Day 7: Farewell Feels
One last morning walk along the Hudson River, brunch at Lafayette, and maybe a little picnic in Washington Square Park with wine and cheese before they head out. Something simple, beautiful, and very “New York.”

To me, the most fun and interesting part of NYC is the mix of cultures, styles, flavors, and people. There’s no “right” way to do the city — it meets you wherever you are. That’s what I’d want my best friend to feel: like they belonged here too.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would have to say I owe a lot of my “success” (or the way I turned out as a person) to my parents (and family). Since I was a young girl, they always believed in me and never clipped my wings. I’ve always been a curious and adventurous girl, and while it was hard to watch me go and explore, they knew I’d fly. The confidence and courage they instilled in me is one of the greatest gifts they could’ve given me to build this beautiful life I’ve made for myself.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecubancarrie/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolecueto/

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