Meet Kristina Rodriguez

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

Hi Kristina, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Learning to take the wheel of my own career was the pivotal factor in my success. Coming from the military, I was programmed to follow a certain playbook – follow orders, maintain a low profile, pursue education, and advance through time and merit. Man, was I in for a wake-up call in the civilian world!

Once that light bulb went off, I did a complete 180. I started going after those “reach” positions everyone said I couldn’t handle (plot twist: I totally could). I invested in myself, took all sorts of masterclasses, and got serious about building real connections with people, not just going through the motions. Through it all, I’ve walked this tightrope of knowing my worth while staying grounded and thankful for every chance I get.

The biggest lesson? Stop waiting around for opportunities to fall in your lap and start creating them. Sometimes the best path forward is the one you blaze yourself – and that’s made all the difference.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started out as a Military Police officer in the U.S. Army, where I learned the foundations of discipline, integrity, and leadership – though I had no idea at the time how valuable those skills would become in my civilian career.

Was it easy? Not even close! The biggest challenge was learning that the civilian world plays by completely different rules. In the military, promotions come with time in grade and points – you keep your head down, do your job, and advance through the ranks. The civilian world? That’s not how it works at all!

Once I figured that out (better late than never, right?), I completely shifted gears. I started going after positions others said were beyond my reach, invested in myself, and focused on creating meaningful professional relationships. This mindset shift from waiting for opportunities to actively creating them was a game-changer.

What really sets me apart, I believe, is this unique blend of military discipline and civilian business savvy. As National Operations Manager for SRS Industrial, the industrial platform at SRS Real Estate Partners, I get to leverage both sides of my experience. Whether I’m mentoring new hires, developing marketing strategies, or streamlining operations, I bring that same attention to detail and mission-focused mindset I learned in the service.

I’m particularly proud of being named SRS Rookie of the Year in 2023 and making the CREi Summit Top 150 Influencers list two years running. But what really gets me excited is mentoring others and helping them navigate their own career paths. Just like I had amazing mentors who believed in me, I’m passionate about paying that forward.

Outside the office, you’ll find me at the Taekwondo dojang where I’m a 1st-degree black belt and tournament emcee. Whether I’m in a strategy meeting or on the mat, I bring the same high energy and enthusiasm. It’s about leading by example and showing that with the right mindset, support system, and willingness to step outside your comfort zone, you can create your own path to success.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned? Success isn’t just about individual achievement, it’s about building and nurturing relationships, staying humble while knowing your worth, and never being afraid to blaze your own trail. And most importantly, remembering to lift others up!

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.
I’m not a big city gal – living in the small town of Fate, TX works for me! But when friends visit, I’ve got a solid list of Dallas spots that never disappoint.

Must-See Spots:
– AT&T Stadium – even for non-football fans, the home of the Cowboys is impressive
– Klyde Warren Park – this urban green space nails the city-park vibe with food trucks and events
– Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden – worth it just for the seasonal displays
– Perot Museum – hands-on science that’s actually fun
– Reunion Tower’s GeO-Deck – best skyline views in Dallas

For Foodies:
– Pecan Lodge – trust me, this BBQ lives up to the hype
– Blue Sushi – fresh takes on sushi rolls
– Bob’s Steak & Chop House or Trulucks – classics and when you’re feeling fancy
– Javier’s & Gloria’s – for your Tex-Mex fix

Night Out:
– Truck Yard – laid-back spot with food trucks
– Rodeo Bar – true Texas vibes
– The W – when you want to see Dallas nightlife at its finest

Between adventures, I’m happy to show visitors why I love small-town living in Fate. Sometimes the best Texas moments happen right on your own porch!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
When I think about this journey, there’s a whole dream team of amazing people who’ve helped shape my path. First and foremost, there’s my partner in crime, Jon – this guy has backed every single one of my career moves, no matter how wild. He’s been my sounding board, confidant, and when I need it, my reality check!

The professional world blessed me with some incredible mentors. Dee Chaney, my first boss in real estate, championed me until her final days – her belief in me was absolutely unwavering. Then there’s Cathy Kabaj, who showed me what grace under pressure looks like (I still need to sit down with her and learn all her secrets!). Kristin Taylor saw potential in me when others couldn’t see past their own assumptions. She helped me break through some tough glass ceilings.

And my mom? She’s been my constant rock and biggest cheerleader, keeping those prayers flowing (trust me, I need every single one!). I’ve also got to tip my hat to powerhouses like Shannon Johnston, Brant Landry, Ward Richmond, and Mark Collins – each one left a lasting impression on my professional development.

You know what’s beautiful about success? It’s this tapestry woven from all these relationships and encounters. Each of these people contributed a unique thread to my story, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

Website: https://srsre.com/industrial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekristinarodriguez/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinarodriguez01/

Twitter: https://x.com/thekrod_

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SRSreIndustrial

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SRSRealEstate

Image Credits
CREi Summit, White Tiger Martial Arts