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

Hi Brenda, how do you think about risk?
I’ve taken plenty of risks in my career. I feel that if you don’t take a risk, you lose the chance. I used to be scared of change so for years I’d just stick to my comfort zone, but I realized I needed to make that big jump to get closer to my vision. In the past 3 years I’ve evolved tremendously as an entrepreneur, there’s definitely been many obstacles I’ve faced, the biggest one this year when we were forced to shut down in the middle of expanding my business. At this point I feel that you can’t run a business without taking risks regardless of the circumstances around us. I rather take them and progress, than be left wondering.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been in the beauty industry for over 12yrs, I’ve seen it evolve in so many ways. Being a woman in a male dominated industry was difficult at first, I was always trying to prove myself. I thought about quitting barbering many times, I even tried specializing in women’s hair at one point but that was just not where my passion was. I realized I had to do what I loved even if I had to work a little harder. Thats when I learned about sacrifice and consistency. I used to work open to close to win these guys over, give them the same great experience every time. All while managing a barbershop. I knew I was preparing myself for my future. Social media has been a big help with getting myself out there and showcasing my work. Also, seeing a new surge of female barbers is so satisfying. I’ve learned that Consistency, embracing change, taking risks is what being an entrepreneur is all about.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’ve been focusing a lot on my health lately so I’d probably start off a day with a fun bike ride at the Hermann Park trail, that’s one of my favorite things to do. I love Houston’s diversity. one thing we would definitely do is a Sunday funday brunch and a drag show in Montrose, the energy there is exhilarating. For Some family fun I’d go Space center Houston and learn a few interesting things. It’s awesome there! I know our summers are super hot here, but Kemah boardwalk is somewhere we can hang out, get on some rides and maybe have some lunch by the water or at the Aquarium. Our city is huge! There are endless places to be try. I love it here.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family has always been my biggest support system. They are always encouraging me, hyping me up and pushing me. I can go to them for anything, Whether it’s for advice or for help fixing something in my shop. I will always be grateful for them. I can’t forget about my amazing clients, they are my second family. They have been very loyal to me throughout the years, I can’t thank them enough for all their love and support.

Website: royalstudiobarber.com
Instagram: @barber_bee__
Facebook: Royal Studio Barber