Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeanette Rodriguez
Hi Jeanette, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
You know, Vision & Heels? It all started about four years ago, right in the middle of the pandemic. Honestly, I was just…miserable. I had worked so hard to climb that corporate ladder, and when I finally got to where I thought I wanted to be, it just wasn’t it. I remember that night so clearly. I sat down with my husband and just said, ‘I need to create a safe space for women.’ A place where we could inspire each other, push each other, just…do more. I can still see the look he gave me. And then he said, ‘Jeanette, if this is what you want, then do it. I got your back.’ That was it. That was the moment.
From then on, it was all about planning. I had this ‘idea,’ and I was determined to make it happen, to self-fund it. I was lucky enough to connect with someone who had already opened a similar space in NYC. She became an incredible friend and mentor. She didn’t sugarcoat anything – she gave me the real deal, the good, the bad, and the ugly of this crazy idea.
And let’s be real, opening a coworking space when everyone was going remote? People thought I was nuts! But I knew I wasn’t the only one feeling that loneliness, that isolation working from home. I missed that energy, that empowerment you get from being around like-minded people.
Now, fast forward three-plus years, and here we are. Vision & Heels is a thriving, female-forward coworking space right here in Downtown DeLand. We’re all about fueling and empowering women and our allies through coworking and collaboration. Our core value? Seeing you succeed. That’s what drives us. And we’ve built this amazing 6,000 square foot space – private offices, a podcast room, conference rooms, meeting spaces, you name it! It’s more than just a space; it’s a community. It’s my dream come to life, and I’m so excited to share it with everyone.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Let me tell you, this journey hasn’t been a walk in the park! Self-funding a brick-and-mortar business? Whew! It’s tough. Really tough. There were times when all I could think about was, ‘How do I keep this going?’ My biggest priority was making sure Vision & Heels could cover its operating costs, no matter what. You know, just to survive.
There were so many sleepless nights! I’d be up at all hours, my mind racing, trying to come up with new ideas, new ways to make it all work. I’m a natural saver, thankfully, so I’ve always been pretty good at budgeting and planning for those slow periods. That’s been a lifesaver, honestly. Being able to be smart with my money, to pre-plan, that’s what’s kept us afloat. It’s not glamorous, but it’s real. And it’s what allowed me to keep chasing this dream, even when things got really, really hard.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Vision & Heels?
Vision & Heels is a female-forward coworking space located in Downtown DeLand. We focus on providing an authentic, diverse, and inclusive environment for our members. We offer a flexible space and events to help people connect. Our memberships also include access to 30+ sister locations across the US.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
The coworking industry is undergoing a dynamic evolution, shaped by changing work patterns and evolving needs.
The widespread adoption of hybrid work models is a primary driver. Coworking spaces provide a flexible “third place” for those seeking a balance between remote and in-office work.
This translates to increased demand for flexible membership options, including part-time and on-demand access.
Beyond just providing workspace, coworking spaces are becoming hubs for community building.
This includes fostering networking opportunities, hosting events, and creating a sense of belonging.
Countering the isolation of remote work is a key value proposition.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.visionandheels.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionandheels
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisionandHeels
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visionandheels
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@visionheels1313
