Meet JR Lopez | Entrepreneur

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

Hi JR, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I was intimidated! I thought in order to start and run a business I needed a degree, experience, financial support, and contacts. However, I came across a quote from Marc Andreesssen, in the book Tools of the Titans, that says: ” To do original work, it’s not necessary to know something nobody else knows. It is necessary to believe something few other people believe. So I started to believe that God wanted me to do this and here I am.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that we serve law enforcement, in particular anti-narcotics units, with the principle of “The Front Line Approach.” This simply means that whatever product or service we developed is going to be based from the actual needs or input of the officer/agent/warrior fighting at the frontlines. This is based on my experience in the U.S. Marine Corps during the war in which equipment or plans were configured away from the frontlines, where it looked good, but they did not pass the heat of battle once brought to the frontlines.

Also, I believe that obtaining anything of great value requires great work and that is certainly the case in business. It has been really tough going from one obstacle to another, from am not interested to no way, so you have to remember your purpose and really grip on your Faith. You have to believe that if God put that vision in your life, you will have it, if you keep pushing and trusting him to deliver at the right time.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Ah that’s a good question and fun one too! Since it’s Miami, we will start with some food: One of my favorite spot is a Nicaraguan restaurant called “El Madrono.” Here it doesn’t matter what you order, you will love it. The place is clean, service is great, and did I mention the food is delicious! Next, you have to hit the beaches–of course Miami Beach at South Pointe and Hollywood Beach to feel the sand, the water, and the fun energy from all the beachgoers. Lastly, some dancing and a few drinks at Brickell where you can bar hop and if you want to stay close to the suburbs, City Place is a good choice too.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Yes definitely! First, God for giving me a vision and purpose for my life with this business venture. My wife, who has supported me, pushed me, and sometimes shoved me…. lol. when times got tough. My FIU SBDC Mentors, in particular George Ray and Alina Matas, for guiding me and encouraging me at the start and even now. Randall Fernandes, at FEDSAPPAREL, for giving me a change to be a part of his business, coaching me, and just overall putting a lot of trust in me. Finally, the many coworkers for their feedback and support when I launched my main product, the SEEKER Anti-Narcotics Tool! If I have accomplished anything is because of them.

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