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

Hi Leslie, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I definitely like to go by my mood and energy, which I check in with regularly throughout the day. I’ve found that as I’ve gained more experience, I’m better at setting my schedule to align with my peak energy times—I’m a morning person, so I tackle my heaviest tasks early on and taper off as the day goes by. Over time, I’ve realized the importance of not pushing too hard beyond my limits, allowing me to be productive without burning out.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Definitely was not easy. I am the oldest daughter of mexican immigrants, the end. Just kidding.

I always wanted to be in a creative space, and fashion just seemed like the perfect fit. I would always try to cut my clothes or dress from a certain era. I loved taking risks with my clothes. I went to FIDM which was a private college, so not all my financial aid would be covered. I didn’t grow up privileged, so no college fund, I got some grants, sold my car, babysat for money, recycled cans, anything I could do to raise money for college.

I interned at Chic Little Devil for a summer, and when I graduated my father passed away 2 days later. I did not grieve well, so I buried myself in work. I lived out of my car for a few weeks when I moved out, and lived out of a suitcase that was in the trunk of my salvaged 2007 Dodge Caliber.

I drove to LA when I heard an uncle had a room for rent, and had $200 to my name and a new job. I was an ecommerce assistant at a wholesale apparel company. I learned so much about styling for ecommerce, merchandising, photography and social media. So much that I started my content creation journey there and I have continued to create content. I love that I can be creative and also make money doing something I enjoy!
My experience all came from learning everything and all that I could, I didn’t say no to learning-every new skill is an opportunity.

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.
Im a big foodie, so breakfast would be a Nick’s Cafe, if you love good diner food with a little bit of mexican food, that;s the place to go! Then we would walk across the street to walk it off at LA historic park. We would walk up to the bridge and take a picture with the LA skyline. After that we could walk to Chinatown and get some fruit from the street vendors. I always find the juiciest dragon fruit there. For lunch, we would go to Howlin’ Rays, they have the best hot chicken sandwich.

For dinner we will go to Highland Park to Joy. The dan dan noodles are a MUST! Then for dessert, a donut from donut friend,

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to recognize my mother. She has been a constant example of resilience, strength, and compassion, showing me what it means to rise from the ashes no matter the obstacles. Growing up within a Latino culture where women are often expected to be submissive, my mother defied these norms and taught me the value of independence and self-sufficiency. She encouraged me to be my own person and showed me that strength and autonomy are powerful qualities to embrace. Through her unwavering spirit, she’s instilled in me the importance of perseverance and the courage to live authentically. Her support and guidance have shaped who I am today, inspiring me not only to aim higher but to hold my own in a world that often has other expectations. I’m endlessly grateful for the love, wisdom, and fierce independence she’s shared with me.

Instagram: @lesnolie

Other: Tik Tok: @lesnolie

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