Meet Gabriela Rodriguez: Instructional Designer

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

Hi Gabriela, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind the success of my brand has been my passion behind the meaning of the brand. Mind the Heart Clothing is all about helping people through that constant battle of the making decisions when your mind and heart are saying two different things. I believe people relate to the brand and are able to gain that courage and confidence to achieve all their dreams and take risks in their lives.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am so excited to be finishing up my Master’s in Instructional Design. All of the skills I learn at work and at school for marketing and designing, are directly applied to my business. Opening my own business was not easy. In fact, it takes a lot and I had to learn to time manage efficiently and learn that with a clothing brand, you have to pay attention to seasons and the wants and needs of people. I overcome this challenge by building rapport with others and using my social media platform to my advantage. I want the world to know that Mind the Heart Clothing is meant to empower them on any journey they take and that each individual who represents our brand, believes in our mission. Someone said something very important to me. “There is only 13 inches between the brain and the heart. That’s a very small distance between your thoughts and your wants.” & this hit home because Mind the Heart Clothing recognizes the constant battle between your rational thoughts and your dreams. But in reality the only limitation to achieving everything you want and also setting yourself up for emotional and financial stability is yourself and your constant efforts to be a better version of yourself.

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 someone was visiting, I would take them on a hike or a view to oversee all of Los Angeles. Take them to Phitlossophy gym because the vibes are seriously amazing and all the people there are genuine. Then I would take them to popular landmarks, the beach, and cool restaurants! One of the best places would be the Baldwin Hill Scenic Overview!

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?
I would love to give a shoutout to all of the people who have influenced this brand. My parents and sister were a huge influence as they made me passionate about any journey I start. Now that I am an NPC Bikini Competitor, my teammates from Team Phit and my Coach Jabbaar have been so supportive of Mind the Heart as we each take the first step in gaining the courage and confidence to step on stage, present our routines, and showcase our hard work. Not only that but my mentors in my jobs have taught me rapport building skills. Everyone who surrounds me inspires me to continue being confident and never let anyone tell me I can’t do something. For that reason, I thank you all, even those who take the time to read this and check out the website! Thank you.

Website: mindtheheartclothing.com

Instagram: mindtheheartgab and mindtheheartclothing