Meet Andrea Rodriguez | Freelance Marketing Consultant

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

Hi Andrea, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Taking risks is scary and uncomfortable, but always worth it in the end. Last year, I realized I hated my job in the corporate world, but I stayed longer than I should have because leaving was ‘risky.’ Even though my day-to-day was absolutely miserable, my income was steady, and I was pretty comfortable. But soon I realized that being complacent was never going to get me anywhere. So one day I woke up and decided it was time to quit. I didn’t know what was going to happen next, but taking that risk was the BEST decision I could’ve ever made for myself and my career. I left a steady job, and dove into my (new and unsure) freelance marketing business full-time. Almost a year later, my business is thriving, and I am happier than ever. I have encountered so many amazing new opportunities and people along the way, and that would’ve never happened if I hadn’t of taken that risk. I used to be fearful of taking risks, but now I embrace them because I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I originally started my freelancing business as a side gig, but it became much more than just an extra source of income. Freelancing became a way for me to connect with real people and help tell their stories. I love creating meaningful relationships with small business owners and helping their businesses thrive. In the corporate world, it’s all about helping big businesses make as much money as possible. And even if these companies’ values don’t align with your own, it’s “just a job,” right? Overtime, I realized that’s just not true. I have the power to choose who and what I spend my time and energy on. Listening, learning and helping others is the most rewarding part of being a freelance marketing consultant.

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.
Luckily for me, my best friend lives down the street from me, so I have some real-life examples. Ha! But I love to have a good balance of adventure and relaxation when it comes to hanging out with friends. An ideal girls trip would include a couple of hikes or other fitness-related activities, a spa day, a wine or beer tasting tour, all while trying a bunch of new delicious foods in between.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
As a daughter of teen parents and granddaughter of immigrants, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without them. Their trials and tribulations have inspired me to be kind, work hard and persevere through adversity. The love and support of my family is what keeps me going and encourages me to be the best version of myself.

Website: https://andreamichellemarketing.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreamichelle93/

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