Welcome back to Rock Talk: From the Ground Up. I’m your host and co-owner of Texas Rock Milling, Trey McCarty.

In this podcast, we will be digging deep into the foundations of growth, creativity, and the opportunity of South Texas. Every episode, we’re bringing in people who are shaping the future of San Antonio. Whether it’s breaking ground on a new neighborhood, launching a business, or creating art that inspires, every business starts the same way–from the ground up.

I first met this week’s guest when he was working at the Sailfish Marina in West Palm Beach, FL. Apollo Ruiz has been a friend for over 10 years now, and he has built a reputation for bringing bars back to life with serious style. He’s a creative, Jiu Jitsu expert, and a grinder in the best way.

In this episode, you’ll hear the grit it takes to chase after your dream, some of the lessons Apollo has learned from life that he applies to business, the importance of getting the small things right, and more.

Interesting Takeaways:

• Everyone has a voice and wants to be heard, but few want to take on the responsibility to implement change.
• Be willing to shift and change directions when what you are doing isn’t working or someone out there is doing it better than you.
• “The hardest thing to do is start.”
• “I was able to separate myself from the pack with just knowledge.”
• Get the small stuff right. People often overlook the stuff they know how to do, which in turn negatively impacts your clients’ overall experience.

Today’s Guest:

Apollo Ruiz is a bar consultant and owner of Freedom Fitness & Jiu Jitsu. He’s on a mission to help resurrect struggling cocktail bars and establishments and turn them into thriving staples of the community that turn a profit. Apollo works in Florida, New Jersey, and right here in Texas. Connect with Apollo on his website or Instagram.