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

Hi Jeo, why did you pursue a creative career?
My introduction to pursuing my modeling/acting journey stemmed from the idea that it was an “impossible route.” A route where historically Latinos and POC’s didn’t have a lot of representation. I chose to pursue the career in which a lot of the odds were against me for the sake of paving the way for the next generation of individuals from my neighborhood or other walks of life that aren’t filled with fruitful resources to see that it’s possible.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My introduction to art/entertainment was really from a lack of resources. I wasn’t in tune with how to navigate getting into the spaces I wanted to be in, so we did it ourselves. We spent two months coming up with creative concepts, sourcing the clothing, and scouting locations to be able to do our own photo shoots and push out our own content. That led to me having a solid portfolio and being able to transition to work with artists, clothing brands, and designers.

It was definitely not easy, I’d usually drive 2 hours one way with laundry bags full of clothes to do these photoshoots while still working a day job. The consistency paid off in the long run.

The most valuable lesson I learned throughout this journey was to make sure you have good people around you. The people in your circle hold a lot of weight in the direction that you wanna go in life.

If there is any take away from anyone seeing my face on a store front, a magazine, or walking a runway, I want them to know that they can do it too. Chase the dream no matter what it is.

“I’m an ode to East Long Beach, CA, and an ode to someone out in the world that looks like me.” -Jeo

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Any time a friend is visiting and hasn’t been to LA I would take them to the places I don’t get to go to often. “Guelaguetza” to have their “Cafe de olla” and eat their “Mole negra.” The beach (any beach) so they can experience having easy access to that. And the night would end with having mezcal at “Bar Flores” or “Las Perlas.”

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I always remind my two best friends that I wouldn’t have made it this far without them. Jacob Morales (IG @JXMORALESS) and Brandon Ross (@ROSSFOUNDOUT). Jacob took my first head shots that landed me my first big modeling job and I worked closely with him creative directing and styling our own photo shoots to push out content and build my portfolio. Brandon produced a film and ended up casting me to play the lead role in it. Building a relationship with both of these guys had me booking work this whole year. It’s been a blessing. Asides from them, all the creative directors/photographers/that I’ve met along that way have steered me in the right direction to continue working and becoming the best version of myself. And of course my mom, older brother, and family that continue to show endless support.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeorodriguez_?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
Jacob Morales

Valabasas

Ricardo Díaz

Jamesfrom17th

Anthony Fernández

Villain Attire

Anthony Ibarra

Jaime Garcia

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