Today we’d like to introduce you to Ricardo Jimenez.
Hi Ricardo, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I grew up between New York and Puerto Rico, surrounded by strong family figures and the hustle of small businesses. My grandfather ran a restaurant, and I still remember the smell of food, the noise of the kitchen, and the joy on people’s faces when they took their first bite. Those moments planted a seed in me—work hard, serve people, and create something meaningful.
But my story isn’t a straight line. I’ve faced some heavy challenges, from losing loved ones to even spending years in prison. Those chapters could have been the end of my story, but instead they became the turning point. I realized that I had to change the meaning of my past—it wasn’t the end, it was the beginning.
From there, I dove into personal growth, mentorship, and entrepreneurship. Over the years I launched different businesses—from digital marketing to community projects—always looking for ways to build, to serve, and to create opportunities for others.
Today, I’m building frutilicious 🍓, a family-run frutería here in Forney, TX, and Mental Reset, a platform to help people with emotional health, addictions, and personal growth. Both are pieces of my bigger mission: to inspire, to bring people together, and to show that no matter where you start, you can rewrite your story.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. If anything, my path has been full of bumps, detours, and storms.
I’ve lost people I love—my father, my brother, close friends. At a young age, I fell into the wrong crowd, chasing money, status, and acceptance. That path led me to hard lessons, including spending nearly six years in prison. Those were some of the darkest days of my life, but also the ones that forced me to look in the mirror and ask: “Who do I really want to be?”
Even after that, starting over as an entrepreneur wasn’t easy. I’ve failed at businesses, made investments that didn’t work out, and had to restart more than once. Sometimes I felt like giving up, other times I worried I wouldn’t be able to provide for my family.
But here’s the truth: every struggle gave me strength. Prison taught me discipline. Loss taught me gratitude. Business failures taught me resilience. And today, when I look at frutilicious 🍓 growing in Forney, or when I record a Mental Reset podcast that helps someone fight through their addiction, I see that all those struggles became the foundation for everything I’m building now.
As you know, we’re big fans of frutilicious 🍓. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At frutilicious 🍓, we’re more than just a snack shop—we’re a family dream that’s been turning into reality right here in Forney, Texas. We bring together the flavors of Mexico and Puerto Rico in a modern, colorful, and playful way, creating treats that are both sweet & sour, just like life itself.
What we’re known for is taking everyday favorites and giving them a twist. From mangonadas dripping with homemade chamoy to churros filled with sweetness, to fresh fruit cups, aguas frescas, and artisan paletas, everything we make is designed to surprise your taste buds and put a smile on your face.
What sets us apart is authenticity + innovation. The chamoy we use is a recipe passed down from Sofia’s grandmother. The flavors we choose come from my own childhood memories—walking through the streets of Puerto Rico, tasting tropical fruits, and later discovering paleterías in Mexico. But we present it all in a clean, Apple-style design that feels modern and inviting. That combination—tradition with a fresh twist—is what people remember about us.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the fact that frutilicious 🍓 is family-run. My wife, my kids, and I are all part of it. Every order helps us get closer to our dream: building a place where families can gather, laugh, and enjoy something that feels like home.
What I want readers to know is simple: when you support frutilicious 🍓, you’re not just buying a snack—you’re part of our story. You’re helping a local family bring something fresh and joyful to the community. And in every bite, you’ll taste that mix of passion, culture, and love that fuels us.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Absolutely. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the resources I’ve leaned on over the years.
Books have been some of my greatest teachers. Los 4 Acuerdos by Don Miguel Ruiz reshaped the way I think about identity and relationships. El Poder de la Mente Disciplinada by Rosa Castillo gave me practical ways to apply neuroscience to everyday life. And John Maxwell’s leadership books guided me when I was stepping into roles where I had to influence and serve others.
Podcasts and audio have also been key. I’ve listened to everything from personal development shows to business strategy podcasts while driving or working. Today, I even host my own — Mental Reset — where I share about emotional health, addictions, and how entrepreneurs can protect their minds while building their dreams.
I also learn from communities. My Book Club mornings, my church men’s group, and my marketing masterminds give me accountability and ideas that keep me sharp.
If I had to sum it up, I’d say the best resources are the ones that don’t just give you information — they give you transformation. That’s what I look for, and that’s what I try to pass on through my own platforms and businesses.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://frutilicious.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forneyfrutilicious/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576895104443
Image Credits
Ricardo Jimenez
