Today we’d like to introduce you to Johnny Rodriguez.
Hi Johnny, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been in the landscape industry for many years, and during that time, I often thought, If I ever had the opportunity to do things my way, I would do it better—and I would do it differently. To me, that meant running a business built on integrity. I wanted to charge clients a fair rate for an honest day’s work, deliver exceptional service, and always do what we said we were going to do.
One day, I was visiting a client I had worked with for years through the company I was employed by at the time. We had never really had many conversation before, but that day he asked me a question that changed everything: “Have you ever thought about going out on your own?” I told him I had—many times—but I’d never taken the leap.
Months passed, and I happened to see him again. He asked if I had made a decision, and by then, after a lot of prayer and reflection, I knew that God was calling me to take that step of faith. I told him yes. He offered to help—not by giving me a loan, but by hiring me for a large project at one of his properties. once that job was complete, he shared the knowledge he had gained from years of running a successful business.
Now, nearly five years later, we’ve grown beyond what I could have imagined. We’ve grown to be a multimillion dollar company, with 21 employees and two branches—one in Dallas and one in Austin. And we’re still growing.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Of course, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Like any business, we’ve faced learning curves and growing pains. From building out systems of operating, managing a growing team, to navigating client expectations and shifts in the market—every season brought new lessons. But I never lost sight of why I started, to raise the standard in our industry by operating with honesty, accountability, and pride in our work. That commitment to myself and our team has kept us grounded even in the most difficult moments.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I’ve been blessed with more than one kind of mentor along this journey. The first was the man who helped me get started—someone who believed in me when I was still on the fence about going out on my own. He gave me an opportunity and shared his knowledge.
But I’ve also had mentors who weren’t tied to business, men who have just walked through life with me. Some are friends or spiritual leaders, but all of them have had a hand in my growth. They’re the ones who pray for me, encourage me, challenge me, and remind me of who I am.
And above all, my faith has been central to this entire process. I truly believe that any success I’ve had comes from putting God first, staying humble, and surrounding in myself with the right people.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cornerstonelandscapeofdallas.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cornerstone_landscapeofdallas?igsh=MW1oOTQzb2xrMG8zcg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CornerstoneLandscapeofDallas?
