He persevered after being fired from his first American job and later rebuilt his first business after a tumultuous breakup with his partner. Most important, he says, he has always made time to help others, which goes a long way toward explaining why he has become a respected leader in the Latino business community.

Today, Mr. Rodriquez owns various businesses: Diversity Insurance Inc., La Reina 1260 AM and 96.5 FM, La Ley 105.5 FM, 5 de Mayo Mexican restaurant, El Malecon Event Center and La Reina Magazine. He and his nephew also founded the Iowa Latino Cycling Club. The Radio Stations La Reina and La Ley, broadcasts a variety of public service programs as an information resource for the Latino community, also spends a lot of his time assisting other immigrants who want to become citizens or to start their own businesses.

“My idea is to continue to work with the community as I always try to help the community to educate because the information is powerful,” said Rodriguez, who became a U.S. citizen in 2008. “At the same time, I know that it’s paid off. When customers know about you and that you are doing good things for the community, they will support you.”

Juan has always helped Latinos Unidos of Iowa providing a Public Announcement spot and many times over adjusting the time period for our participants. I have heard his clients and friends say, “He has a heart of gold” and “I don’t know where I would be without his assistance.” They drive 100’s of miles to get personalize attention and help. “ That’s how trust worthy Juan is”.